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RARE: Relics of St. Francis to be Displayed in Assisi, Italy

From February 22 – March 22, 2026, pilgrims visiting the medieval city of Assisi, Italy will be able to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Pope Leo XIV has given permission for the bones of St. Francis, who died in the year 1226, to be publicly displayed in honor of the 800^th anniversary of this great Saint’s death. This is the first time in history that St. Francis’ relics will be publicly displayed. During this time, his tomb will be temporarily moved from its current crypt to the foot of the altar in the Lower Basilica.

206 Tours has several Pilgrimages that will be traveling to Assisi during this special event! View available departures by visiting: www.206tours.com/stfrancis

Due to the anticipated crowds, it will be a requirement for all pilgrims coming to venerate the relics to obtain free tickets. 206 Tours will ensure that these tickets are secured for all our pilgrims.

St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most beloved and famous Saints in Catholic history. Born in 1181 in the town of Assisi, Francis was the son of a wealthy merchant. His dream was to become a knight, and he was known throughout the town as a fun-loving, secular young man who loved spending time with his friends. However, when he set out for his first real battle, a voice from Heaven told him to turn back and go home. Upon returning to Assisi, Francis felt the call to “rebuild the Church” and embrace a life of total poverty. He founded the Franciscan Order with a group of followers who sought to live out the Gospel completely through love of poverty and service of the poor. St. Francis accomplished much for God throughout his life and was even given the grace of the stigmata – bearing the five wounds of Christ on his body. He also inspired St. Clare of Assisi, who followed his teachings closely, to found the Poor Clare nuns. After his death, St. Francis became the patron Saint of Italy, and his legacy continues to inspire millions of people.

His hometown of Assisi has remained largely unchanged since Francis was alive. The medieval town is well-known as a place of peace, beauty, and prayer. In addition to visiting the tombs of St. Francis and St. Clare in Assisi, pilgrims also can now pray at the tomb of the first millennial Saint: St. Carlo Acutis. Carlo had a great love for St. Francis and wished to be buried in Assisi. His wishes were honored after his death in 2006, and pilgrims can now pray at his tomb in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi.

The country of Italy has also decided to reinstate October 4^th as a national holiday in honor of St. Francis who is seen as a key figure in Italian history. It is a great grace for all Italian citizens to have this great Saint’s intercession.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be present in Assisi for this historic event! Book your Pilgrimage today: www.206tours.com/stfrancis

View Our Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages