St. Francis bones go on public display in Assisi, drawing mixed reactions

St. Francis' remains are being displayed publicly in Assisi for a month to mark the 800th anniversary of his death, with nearly 400,000 registered visitors and city officials arranging volunteers, parking and shuttle services.

St. Francis' bones have been placed on public display in Assisi for a month-long exhibition to mark the 800th anniversary of his death. Organizers say this is the first time the saint's remains have been shown publicly and they will return to the tomb at the end of the display. Large numbers of pilgrims have registered to see the relics, and local authorities are preparing logistical measures to manage the flow. Residents, shopkeepers and friars describe both spiritual interest and practical concerns for the town. Known details: - The remains are displayed in a bulletproof glass box in the lower Basilica of St. Francis. - The exhibition runs for one month and the bones are scheduled to be returned to their tomb on March 22. - Nearly 400,000 people have registered to pray before the relics; officials estimate attendance could reach about 500,000. - About 400 volunteers have been recruited to guide visitors through Assisi's narrow streets. - City hall has added parking lots outside the center and runs a shuttle service to bring people into town. - Assisi's recent rise in pilgrims is also linked in reports to the canonization of Carlo Acutis and the recent Holy Year. Summary: The exhibition underscores Assisi's role as a major pilgrimage site and highlights both devotional interest and strains on local services and infrastructure. Officials and residents say the month-long display is finite, and the remains will be returned to the tomb on March 22.