800 years after his death, the legends and legacy of Francis of Assisi endure

Medieval texts and frescoes show how Francis of Assisi’s legends formed – and why his call to poverty and care for creation still resonates.

By: Vanessa Corcoran, Georgetown University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 2, 2026

Words: 1,429

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 2 days ago

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By Vanessa Corcoran, Georgetown University

On the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan order, his body will be displayed for the first time ever in February 2026, at the Basilica of San Francesco. Millions of visitors are expected to converge in the small Tuscan town of Assisi to honor the 13th-century saint.

Francis, who died on Oct. 4, 1226, espoused care for the poor and reverence …

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