Walking in the Footsteps of St Francis – 800th Anniversary Pilgrimage

Marking the 800th Anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi, this pilgrimage journeys into the heart of Franciscan spirituality across Italy. Begin in Assisi, where the spirit of “Il Poverello” still breathes through the Basilica of St Francis, St Clare Basilica, and the beloved Porziuncola at St Mary of the Angels. Pray before the relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis and reflect at Rivotorto, where the first Franciscan community took root.

Travel to the sacred hermitage of Eremo della Carceri, nestled in the woods above Assisi, and to Greccio, birthplace of the first Nativity scene. At La Verna, stand where St Francis received the stigmata, and visit Gubbio, recalling the story of the wolf and the saint’s peace-making heart.

The pilgrimage concludes in Rome with visits to the great basilicas—Santa Maria Maggiore, St Paul Outside the Walls, St John Lateran, and St Peter’s—together with a Papal Audience. Daily Mass, guided reflections, and moments of quiet prayer invite pilgrims to embrace the Franciscan call to humility, peace, and renewal.