The bones of St. Francis of Assisi are going on public display for the first time, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. The monthlong exhibition in Assisi, Italy is expected to draw up to 500,000 pilgrims to the medieval hilltop town, creating both opportunity and strain for residents.

Already, nearly 400,000 people have registered to view the relics, which are housed in a bulletproof glass box in the lower Basilica of St. Francis. 400 volunteers have been recruited to manage the crowds through Assisi's narrow cobblestone streets. Mayor Valter Stoppini expressed concern about the prolonged nature of the event, noting the town typically handles only brief pilgrimage influxes.

The exhibition represents a significant moment for Assisi, which already attracts millions of pilgrims annually to St. Francis' tomb and the basilica featuring Giotto's frescoes. The decision to display the relics publicly for the first time aims to keep St. Francis' message of peace, creation, and care for the poor alive for new generations of Christians.