‘Gives me goosebumps’: Thousands flock to Assisi as St Francis’ bones go on display
Sydney Morning Herald
by Nicole Winfield, Gregorio BorgiaFebruary 23, 2026
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Thousands of pilgrims have gathered in Assisi, Italy, to view the bones of St. Francis of Assisi, which are being displayed publicly for the first time in 800 years. This historic event, marking the 800th anniversary of his death, aims to honor his legacy and revive his message of peace and fraternity. The remains, stored in a bulletproof case in the lower Basilica of St. Francis, have attracted nearly 400,000 advance registrations, reflecting the enduring appeal of Christian relics.
St. Francis, who renounced wealth to live as a mendicant friar, is celebrated for his teachings on poverty, peace, and care for the environment. His body was lost after his death in 1226 due to fears of theft during religious conflicts. Rediscovered centuries later, his remains have since been treasured by Christians, who view relics as a way to connect with saints’ spiritual essence.
The display is part of a broader tradition of venerating saints’ physical remains, which has both inspired devotion and faced challenges like forgeries and security concerns. Brother Giulio Cesareo, a Franciscan spokesman, emphasized that the exhibition is not about macabre spectacle but about encountering the Holy Spirit that once animated St. Francis.
Pilgrims, including Fiorella Farina, who named her children Francesco and Francesca after the saint, see this as a unique opportunity to connect with his teachings. For many, St. Francis’ relics symbolize a direct link to Christ and a source of spiritual renewal. The event highlights how relics continue to hold profound significance for believers, despite
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026