Twice a year, once on the Feast of the Assumption and once on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi displays Mary’s veil.
A gift to Mary from the Magi, this precious silk veil was used to swaddle baby Jesus.
A prince donated the veil to the basilica in 1319 after he picked it up during the crusades.
Tests over the years confirmed the veil to be ancient and the type of byssus silk used during the time of Jesus and Mary.
Though the veil is always here, the reliquary is kept closed 363 days a year.
The veil is kept locked up behind these doors 363 days a year.