An 800-year-old relic, believed to contain the blood of the universally beloved St. Francis of Assisi and still appearing remarkably red, is making its unprecedented debut outside of Italy. This rare artifact, the Bandage Relic of the Stigmata of Saint Francis of Assisi, is on display at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in San Francisco to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death. The relic’s vivid crimson hue, preserved for centuries, is a point of fascination, with religious explanations suggesting a miracle, though scholarly scrutiny has been limited. The presence of this bloodstained bandage, linked to the stigmata St. Francis received after a vision of a seraph, connects him spiritually to Christ and contributes to his enduring popularity across various Christian denominations. While other relics attributed to St. Francis have been authenticated, some, like a tunic once thought to be his, have been disproven by carbon dating. This particular blood-soaked bandage, however, has not undergone such testing, leaving the reason for its extraordinary preservation a mystery. The exhibition offers a unique, unrepeatable opportunity for Christians and history enthusiasts alike to witness a significant piece of church history, emphasizing that such high-status relics cannot be bought and are rarely, if ever, displayed outside their home country.
Adapted from: Travel News Today on Fox News
