Saint Francis of Assisi’s skeleton is now on display for the first time, drawing in tons of visitors. Housed in a nitrogen-filled case, his remains are showcased at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, Italy, with the inscription “Corpus Sancti Francisci” (the body of Saint Francis).
Saint Francis, who passed away on October 3, 1226, is famous for founding the Franciscan order. He was known for renouncing wealth to dedicate his life to helping the poor.
Giulio Cesareo, the communications director for the Franciscan convent, aims for the display to offer something meaningful for both believers and skeptics. He noted that the condition of the bones reflects how much St. Francis dedicated himself to his mission.
These remains will be viewable until March 22. They were originally moved to the basilica in 1230, and only rediscovered in 1818 after secret excavations. The last time they were displayed was briefly in 1978.
This time, the remains are better protected in a transparent, secure case within another bulletproof glass enclosure. Surveillance cameras will monitor them constantly.
Saint Francis is Italy’s patron saint. To celebrate the 800th anniversary of his death, a public holiday will be established on October 4. Reservations for viewing the remains have already reached nearly 400,000, highlighting the global interest. Most visitors are from Italy, but people are also coming from Brazil, North America, and Africa.
On average, the basilica has about 1,000 visitors on weekdays and up to 4,000 on weekends. However, during this special display, they expect numbers to jump to 15,000 on weekdays and nearly 19,000 on weekends.
Experts assure that the display won’t harm the remains. The case is sealed and keeps the bones in the same conditions as inside the tomb. “This is no horror show,” Cesareo commented, indicating that the lighting will be soft, preserving the sanctity of the space.
This unique display not only pays homage to a beloved historical figure but also offers a glimpse into centuries-old practices of venerating relics. As interest swells, the exhibit is more than a theological event; it becomes a moment of cultural reflection, blending history, faith, and modern curiosity. For historical context, commemorating figures like Saint Francis often sparks discussions on values that resonate even today—compassion, humility, and service to others.
For those interested in more about Saint Francis and his legacy, consider reading about the importance of relics in Christian tradition from National Geographic.
