Mortal remains of Saint Francis of Assisi to be placed on public display for the first time

Assisi, January 10, 2026: For the first time in history, the mortal remains of Saint Francis of Assisi will be placed on public display, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church as it commemorates 800 years since the saint’s death in 1226.

From 22 February to 22 March 2026, pilgrims from around the world will be able to venerate the remains of the founder of the Franciscan Order at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, where he is buried. The unprecedented exposition forms part of Jubilee-style celebrations honouring the saint, whose witness of poverty, peace, fraternity and love for creation continues to inspire millions.

The event will be held under the motto “Saint Francis Lives.” With the approval of the Holy See, the remains will be transferred from the saint’s tomb in the crypt of the Franciscan Basilica and placed at the foot of the papal altar in the lower church. This arrangement will allow the faithful extended time for prayer and reflection.

Franciscan authorities have stressed that the initiative is not intended as a historical curiosity. Instead, they describe it as a deeply spiritual invitation to encounter the Gospel through the life and example of Saint Francis. The focus, they say, is on renewing faith and drawing pilgrims into a deeper experience of conversion and discipleship.

Organisers expect a large influx of pilgrims during the exhibition period and are making extensive pastoral and logistical preparations to ensure a prayerful and orderly atmosphere. Measures are being planned to manage crowds while preserving the solemn character of the basilica.

The exposition recalls Saint Francis’s enduring call to conversion, humility and radical trust in God. Known affectionately as the Poverello—the “Little Poor Man”—Saint Francis died on 3 October 1226. Eight centuries later, his message continues to speak powerfully to a world longing for peace, simplicity and reconciliation.

As the Church prepares to mark this milestone anniversary, the public veneration of Saint Francis’s remains stands as a rare and historic moment of grace for the global Catholic community.

Mortal remains of Saint Francis of Assisi to be placed on public display for the first time

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