St Francis of Assisi is the Patron Saint of Italy, founder of the Franciscan order and the world’s most beloved saint. 2026 marks the 800th anniversary of his death and his relics will be on public display within the Basilica of Assisi from 22nd February until 22nd March 2026.

The Italian poet Dante Alighieri is most renowned for The Divine Comedy, regarded as one of the greatest literary achievements in history.