Pope Leo XIV made a deeply symbolic pilgrimage on Wednesday morning as he visited the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi, marking the beginning of his trip to the historic Italian town where he will meet with the bishops of the Italian Episcopal Conference at the close of their 81st General Assembly.
Arriving by helicopter shortly after 8 a.m., the Pope was driven into the heart of Assisi, a city revered worldwide for its history, culture, and profound spiritual legacy. It has welcomed millions of pilgrims over the centuries, including more than twenty popes.
Despite cold rain, a small crowd gathered in the square, greeting the Holy Father with cries of “Viva il Papa!” as he approached the Basilica. He was welcomed by the convent’s custodian, Fr. Marco Moroni, and a group of friars who accompanied him into the crypt.
Before the ancient stone tomb of St. Francis—Italy’s patron saint—Pope Leo paused in quiet prayer. As the Church prepares to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death, the Pope reflected on the enduring relevance of the humble friar.
“It is a blessing to come to this sacred place,” he said. “As we approach the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’s death, we prepare to celebrate this great, humble, and poor saint at a moment when the world is searching for signs of hope.”
His words were broadcast outside the basilica, reaffirming St. Francis’s timeless message of simplicity, peace, and renewal.
Following the visit to the tomb, the Pope proceeded to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli for his scheduled meeting with Italy’s bishops.
Credit: Vatican news
Comment here