800 Years After His Death, Franz von Assisi Becomes a Political Icon in Italy

The 800th anniversary of the death of Franz von Assisi has reignited a debate in Italy over the saint's political legacy. The Meloni government recently reinstated October 4 as a national holiday, a move that has sparked discussions about which version of Franz is being celebrated. Franz von Assisi, one of the most popular saints and the patron saint of Italy, is claimed by both the left and the right as a political icon. The Catholic Church's renewed political influence is evident as Catholicism becomes a political factor again. The article explores how Franz's radical Christian message is being interpreted and appropriated in contemporary Italian politics. It questions whether the government's celebration of Franz aligns with his actual teachings, which emphasized humility and poverty. The debate reflects broader tensions in Italian society about religion, identity, and politics. The article also examines what can be learned from the man from Assisi, highlighting his enduring relevance and the challenge of his radical message to both secular and religious authorities. The anniversary serves as a lens through which to view the current political landscape and the role of Catholicism in public life.