Italian cities unveil new sculptures and performances for St. Francis' 800th death anniversary

In Cortona, the bronze sculpture "San Francesco e il lupo" by Bergamo artist Ugo Riva was installed at the Eremo delle Celle on 2 August. The work, part of the "Sculture – Nuovi segni" project commissioned by the National Committee marking the eight‑centenary of St Francis of Assisi, joins nine other pieces created by Italian and foreign artists that will form a pilgrimage route across Italy. The sculpture, cast by Fondart in Bergamo, stands on a corten‑steel base and bears the inscription “O Signore | fai di me strumento | della | pace.” The event coincided with the Day of Forgiveness and was attended by local officials, including Mayor Luciano Meoni.

Meanwhile, in Mantua and the surrounding province, the theatrical network 4D Teatro launched the "Canti.Co" project, a series of performances that explore the tension between the sacred and the profane through the lens of St Francis. Supported by the Ministry of Culture, municipal authorities and various cultural institutions, the programme opened with the show "Creatura" at Palazzo Te, featuring collaborations between local dance and theatre groups. The initiative aims to connect contemporary artistic expression with the heritage of St Francis across historic sites such as Palazzo Te, the Diocesan Museum, and venues in Curtatone and other towns.