The bodily remains of Saint Francis have for the first time ever been brought out of the underground crypt in Assisi, allowing the public to pay their respects starting February 22.
In a historic event, the relics of Saint Francis of Assisi were displayed for the first time outside of their underground crypt this past Saturday evening. The ceremony, presided over by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, was attended by several hundred followers of Saint Francis, marking a significant occasion for the Catholic community. This monumental moment comes as part of a special year commemorating Saint Francis, announced by Pope Leo XIV, who is expected to visit Assisi later this August.
Starting from Sunday, February 22, the relic will be open to the public until March 22, with over 350,000 people already registering their interest on the official San Francesco vive website. This unprecedented public display is anticipated to draw tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world to the site, highlighting the enduring significance of Saint Francis as a central figure in Catholicism and the spiritual attraction of Assisi itself.
The decision to bring the relics of Saint Francis into the public eye reflects the Catholic Church's ongoing efforts to engage with its followers and to revitalize interest in the saint's teachings and legacy. As pilgrims and tourists converge on Assisi, the event is set to not only reinforce religious devotion but also promote cultural tourism in the region, significantly impacting the local economy during this period of special observance.
