fra Giulio Cesareo: «It’s always amazing to see how much people love Francesco»
The first public and extended display of the mortal remains of St. Francis of Assisi has already been a huge hit, with over 150,000 reservations from pilgrims all over the world. The event will be held from February 22 to March 22, 2026, in the lower church of the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi. This result confirms the universality of the Saint’s message and his ability to inspire generations.
A Universal Message
“It is always amazing to see how much people love Francis,” said Fra Giulio Cesareo, OFMConv, director of the Communications Office of the Sacred Convent. “He is a universal brother and, for us, it is an honor to facilitate an encounter with him, who still has so much to give to the men and women of our time.”
How to Participate in the Exhibition
Free reservations to participate in the exposition are still open and can only be made on the official website www.sanfrancescovive.org (also available in English at www.saintfrancisliveson.org). On the website, you can find all the information about the event and the Franciscan Centenary 2026, which celebrates the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis.
In addition, pilgrims can subscribe to the official newsletter to receive updates and useful information.
Digital Content for Pilgrims
The community of friars accompanies pilgrims with digital content on the Basilica’s official social media channels and on the “San Francesco digitale” app. The following is published each week:
Tuesday: informative content about the event and the figure of St. Francis.
Saturday: cultural and spiritual insights.
These digital tools offer valuable support to help you get the most out of the exposition and the Franciscan Centenary.
The Franciscan Centenary 2026: “St. Francis Lives”
The exposition is part of the celebrations for the Franciscan Centenary 2026, an opportunity to reflect on the life and message of St. Francis, who continues to inspire millions of people. The event’s slogan, “St. Francis Lives,” recalls the Gospel image of the seed that dies to bear fruit:
“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit” (Jn 12:24).
St. Francis is a fruitful seed, capable of sprouting and bearing fruit over time. The Centenary will be a moment of inspiration for contemporary society.
Find out more
For further information, visit the official website www.sanfrancescovive.org or follow the social media channels of the Basilica of St. Francis.
