St. Francis' bones go on public display in Assisi, a mixed blessing

St. Francis’ remains have been placed on monthlong public display in Assisi to mark the 800th anniversary of his death, and nearly 400,000 people have already registered to view the relics. The town has prepared volunteer teams, security measures and new parking and shuttle services to manage the large expected crowds before the bones return to the tomb on March 22.

The bones of St. Francis have been removed from the crypt and put on public display in Assisi for a month as part of the 800th anniversary commemorations of his death. Organisers and city officials say the move is intended to allow Christians to pray before the relics and to keep the saint’s message alive. The exhibition is the first time the remains have been shown publicly for an extended period and has already drawn large numbers of registered visitors. Key details: - Nearly 400,000 people have registered to pray before the relics, and local officials estimate numbers could approach half a million before the display ends. - The bones are being shown in a bulletproof glass case and a team of roughly 400 volunteers will assist movement of visitors through the medieval city to the lower Basilica of St. Francis. - Officials say the monthlong exhibition will put strain on Assisi’s narrow, souvenir-lined center and limited services, since the town more commonly handles much shorter events. - Assisi remains a major pilgrimage destination, noted for St. Francis’ tomb and the basilica decorated with Giotto’s frescoes; the exhibition is meant to continue that tradition. - The recent canonization of Carlo Acutis has also increased pilgrim numbers, with officials reporting a 30% rise in visitors last year linked to his popularity among young Catholics. - City hall has created new parking lots outside the center and is running a shuttle service to bring visitors into town while merchants note the economic benefits of increased religious tourism. Summary: The exhibition underscores both Assisi’s religious appeal and the practical pressure a sustained influx of pilgrims places on a small medieval town. Local officials have arranged volunteers, security and transport to manage crowds, and the relics are scheduled to be returned to the tomb on March 22.