For the first time, people can view the bones of St. Francis of Assisi. The relics are displayed in a slim, bulletproof Plexiglas case in the lower Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, the town closely linked to the medieval friar. Nearly 400,000 people registered in advance to see them.
The Franciscans will display the relics for one month, until 22 March, to mark the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death in 1226. The exhibition highlights his message of peace and fraternity, which inspired Pope Francis to take his name.
The history of St. Francis’ remains
St. Francis, born in 1182 to a wealthy merchant family, gave up his possessions to become a mendicant friar. Near the end of his life, he reportedly received the stigmata, becoming the first recorded saint to bear Christ’s marks.
After his death, his followers hid his body for centuries to protect it from theft. Brother Elias, a close aide, secretly buried him within the basilica. The bones stayed hidden until 1818, when excavations confirmed their authenticity under Pope Pius VII.
Pilgrims can learn more about this history at an exhibition in the Franciscan convent adjacent to the basilica.
Veneration and devotion today
Brother Giulio Cesareo, a Franciscan spokesperson, explained that the display continues a long-standing Christian tradition.
“It is not about venerating Francis alone, but about connecting with the Holy Spirit that guided him,” he said. “For believers, it is a way to reflect on their own lives.”
Sean Pilcher, director of Sacra: Relics of the Saints, noted that relics have sometimes been misused. “Saints are our brothers and sisters in heaven,” he said. “It is natural to want a connection with them. The Church channels that desire toward Christ.”
For devotees like Fiorella Farina, who moved to Assisi and named her children Francesco and Francesca, the exhibition is a rare opportunity.
“Even talking about it gives me goosebumps,” she said. She added that St. Francis’ care for the poor, commitment to peace, and respect for nature remain relevant today.
Security on the first day was tight but discreet. Pilgrims passed through metal detectors before entering the basilica. Plain-clothed officers, sniffer dogs, and cameras helped protect the relics.
Many visitors, such as Silvanella Tamos from Pordenone, said the experience felt alive. “He still has a message for us today,” she said.
