From 550,000 visitors in 2023 to nearly one million in 2024. These are the figures estimated by this sanctuary in Assisi, where the tomb of Carlo Acutis is located. What happened in a year to double the number of visitors? The answer is simple: the Pope announced the canonization of the young millennial.
Acutis was already popular around the world, so given the fact that he was now being declared a saint made visiting this city even more essential. In fact, some locals explained to this outlet that, despite being a place already associated with two other saints—St. Francis and St. Clare—the focus now lies mostly in the figure of Carlo.
Visiting his tomb has become a must-stop.
FR. MARCO GABALLO
Rector, Sanctuary of the Stripping (Assisi)
It does me a lot of good as well—to me, Marco—to see so many people who come, let’s say, with problems and wounds, and here they find the strength to carry on, with the ability to face life’s difficulties with their heads held high. This impresses me a lot and fills me with joy.
Many also feel a strong connection to Carlo because they’re from the same era as he is, either the same age he was when he died or from the same generation.
GIUSEPPE TRANCHESE
Italian pilgrim
I’m the same age as Carlo Acutis, so for me it’s very impactful to stop in front of his body, but especially to reflect on his life because in just a few short years he managed to accomplish what many can’t do in an entire lifetime. He didn’t waste a single minute of his time but dedicated it all to the Lord.
What strikes everyone is how a boy of just 15 years could have such a profound impact in such short period of time.
CARLO NOVARA
Italian pilgrim
A saint is something wonderful, especially because he’s a boy, a young person, and you don’t expect that… Well, sometimes what adults fail to do, he actually did.
The canonization of Carlo Acutis has caused a surge in visits to Assisi with this young man a new point of reference. His sainthood will undoubtedly continue to boost these numbers.
CA
Trans. CRT
