Assisi, Italy – For the first time in nearly a millennium, the remains of Saint Francis of Assisi are on public display, drawing pilgrims and visitors from across the globe to the Basilica of Saint Francis. The unprecedented exhibition, which began on Sunday, February 22, 2026, coincides with the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death and offers a rare opportunity for veneration and reflection on the life and legacy of one of Christianity’s most beloved figures. The display is scheduled to continue until March 22nd, and officials anticipate a surge in tourism to the Umbrian hill town.
Encased within a nitrogen-filled plexiglass case bearing the Latin inscription “Corpus Sancti Francisci” (The Body of St. Francis), the skeletal remains are presented in the crypt of the basilica, a site deeply intertwined with the saint’s history. Saint Francis, born in Assisi, renounced a life of wealth to embrace poverty and dedicate himself to a life of service and spiritual devotion, founding the Franciscan Order in the process. His teachings continue to resonate with millions worldwide, emphasizing peace, simplicity, and a profound connection with nature. The basilica itself, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, stands as a testament to his enduring influence and is a major center for Catholic pilgrimage. UNESCO details the significance of Assisi and the Basilica of Saint Francis as a cultural landmark.
Giulio Cesareo, director of communications for the Franciscan convent in Assisi, expressed hope that the exhibition would be a profoundly moving experience for all who visit, regardless of their faith. “We hope this can be a meaningful experience, not only for believers but similarly for non-believers,” Cesareo stated, adding that the physical state of the remains – described as “damaged” and “consumed” – speaks to Saint Francis’s complete self-sacrifice in his earthly mission. The careful preservation and presentation of the relics underscore the reverence with which they are held within the Franciscan community and the broader Catholic Church.
A History of Rediscovery and Limited Public Viewings
The journey to publicly displaying the remains of Saint Francis has been a long and carefully considered one. While the Basilica of Saint Francis was constructed beginning in 1227, shortly after his death on October 3, 1226, the precise location of his tomb remained a mystery for centuries. It wasn’t until 1818 that his remains were rediscovered during excavations carried out in secrecy. Prior to this, the saint’s remains were transferred to the basilica in 1230, but their exact resting place within the structure was unknown. The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi’s history details the construction and subsequent rediscovery of the saint’s tomb.
This current exhibition marks only the second time the bones of Saint Francis have been publicly displayed. The first occasion was in 1978, but that viewing was limited to a small audience for a single day. Since then, the relics have remained encased in a transparent, protective case within the basilica’s crypt, only briefly removed on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from the metal coffer where they are typically stored. The current display utilizes an additional layer of security, with the encased remains placed inside a bulletproof and anti-burglary glass case, monitored by surveillance cameras operating 24 hours a day.
The Significance of Relics in Christian Tradition
The veneration of relics – the physical remains or possessions of saints – is a long-standing tradition within Christianity, dating back to the early Church and the catacombs. Cesareo explained that Christians have historically viewed relics not as macabre objects, but as tangible connections to the divine and vessels of the Holy Spirit. “From the very beginning, since the time of the catacombs, Christians have venerated the bones of martyrs, the relics of martyrs, and they have never really experienced it as something macabre,” he said. “What Christians still venerate today, in 2026, in the relics of a saint is the presence of the Holy Spirit.” This practice reflects a belief in the continued spiritual power and intercession of saints even after their death.
Anticipated Crowds and Commemorative Events
The exhibition is expected to draw an estimated 400,000 visitors from around the world, with a significant majority originating from Italy, according to Marco Moroni, guardian of the Franciscan convent. Visitors are arriving from Brazil, North America, Africa, and numerous other countries, highlighting the global reach of Saint Francis’s appeal. The basilica, which typically welcomes 1,000 visitors on weekdays and 4,000 on weekends during this time of year, is preparing for a substantial increase, anticipating 15,000 visitors on weekdays and up to 19,000 on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month-long display.
The 800th anniversary of Saint Francis’s death is not only marked by the exhibition of his remains but also by the restoration of October 4th as a public holiday in Italy. This holiday, previously abolished nearly 50 years ago due to budgetary constraints, has been reinstated as a tribute to the saint and, notably, to Pope Francis, who chose his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. The late Pope Francis passed away in 2024 at the age of 88. The revival of the holiday demonstrates the enduring cultural and religious significance of Saint Francis within Italy.
Preservation and Presentation of the Remains
Concerns about the preservation of the fragile remains have been addressed through meticulous preparation and protective measures. Cesareo emphasized that the display case is completely sealed, ensuring no contact with outside air and maintaining the conditions similar to those within the tomb. The basilica’s lighting will be subdued to minimize any potential impact on the bones. “The basilica will not be lit up like a stadium,” Cesareo assured, “This is not a movie set.” Experts have confirmed that these precautions should adequately safeguard the relics during the exhibition period.
In a related development, the remains of Carlo Acutis, a young Italian man canonized as a saint in September 2024 by Pope Leo XIV, are also housed in a church in Assisi. Acutis, known for his devotion to the Eucharist and his use of technology for evangelization, has grow a popular figure among young Catholics. His relics, like those of Saint Francis, attract pilgrims seeking spiritual inspiration.
The exhibition of Saint Francis’s remains represents a unique moment in history, offering a tangible connection to a spiritual leader whose teachings continue to inspire millions. As visitors from around the world converge on Assisi, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Saint Francis and the values he championed – peace, poverty, and a profound love for all creation.
The display of Saint Francis’s remains is scheduled to conclude on March 22, 2026. Further information regarding the Basilica of Saint Francis and related commemorative events can be found on the official website: San Francesco Assisi Official Website. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below.