The remains of St. Francis of Assisi are on display for the first time in 800 years.

The remains of St. Francis of Assisi are displayed in Assisi in the lower church of the Basilica of St. Francis from 22 February at 22 March 2026, for the first time after 800 years since his deathIt is a moment that touches the heart of the Church and draws pilgrims from all over the world: a month of prayer, silence, and encounter, under the banner of a message that never ceases to speak to humanity.

The exhibition takes place at a particularly significant time: the LentThe display of the remains thus becomes an invitation to medium-high pace, fraternity and to reconciliation, values ​​that Saint Francis embodied with his life.

To participate you need a free and mandatory reservationThis choice is designed to ensure safety and order, but also to allow everyone to live the experience in an atmosphere of serenity and reflection. In Assisi, there are active about 400 volunteers, called to support the reception of visitors arriving from the five continents.

The event is part of the journey accompanying the eighth centenary of the Franciscan Order, also supported by the institutions. Regional President Stefania Proietti emphasized the shared commitment to the 800th anniversary initiatives, while Assisi Mayor Valter Stoppini reiterated the spirit of fraternal welcome with which the city is ready to welcome the crowds of pilgrims. Davide Rondoni, president of the National Committee for the Centenary, concluded by recalling a crucial message of the Christian faith: "Before the remains of Francis, we do not celebrate death, but life, the hope that never ends." To accompany this special month, the website sanfrancescovive.org, where you can book a visit and follow the most significant moments.

For millions of Catholics, and not only, the display of the Saint's remains is a strong reminder: to return to the essential, to rediscover peace, to look beyond appearances.