Catholic cross in Milan is a symbol of unity during the Olympics

The Cross of the Athletes, made from 15 pieces of wood sourced across five continents, is on display at Milan’s Basilica of San Babila during the 2026 Winter Games. The archdiocese has designated the church the 'Church of Athletes' and is offering Masses in multiple languages as part of a wider program of events.

The Cross of the Athletes is on display at Milan’s Basilica of San Babila during the 2026 Winter Olympics. The wooden cross was created from pieces of wood gathered from five continents. The archdiocese has temporarily designated San Babila the Church of Athletes and is holding multilingual Masses while the cross is present. The display is one part of a broader diocesan program that includes youth events and cultural activities. Key details: - English artist Jon Cornwall crafted the cross using 15 pieces of wood sourced across five continents. - The cross first debuted at the London 2012 Olympics and has since been brought to subsequent host cities; Tokyo was an exception because of pandemic travel restrictions. - The cross is placed beside the main altar in the Basilica of San Babila, a Romanesque church near Piazza San Babila. - Milan’s archdiocese has scheduled Masses in Italian, English, French and German during the Games and describes the multilingual services as a visible sign of welcome. - The Vatican’s culture ministry has described the cross as carrying the prayers and hopes of athletes; it was recently in the Vatican for a Jubilee of Sport and is expected to travel to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games. Summary: The cross is presented locally as a sign meant to emphasize unity and hospitality during the Olympics and Paralympics. Its presence at San Babila is paired with multilingual services and community programming that have drawn local attendees. The cross has a history of visiting Olympic host cities and is expected to continue that pattern by going to Los Angeles for 2028.