The Oldest Copy of St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures
For the first time ever, the oldest copy of St. Francis of Assisi’s renowned text, the Canticle of the Creatures, is on display in Rome’s Museo di Roma from October 2 until January 6, 2025. This special exhibition marks the 800th anniversary of its composition in 1224, bringing together 93 books and works from the Library in Assisi for all to see in the Eternal City.
By Kielce Gussie
A Glimpse into the Past
While the focus of the exhibition is on the beloved text by St. Francis of Assisi, Dr. Paolo Capitanucci, the curator of the exhibition, reveals that it aims to showcase how the Franciscans, inspired by St. Francis and his Canticle, have delved into disciplines that are now considered scientific over the centuries.
The exhibition is divided into nine sections, each exploring different disciplines such as mathematics, medicine, minerals, and geography. The layout of the exhibit resembles a tree, with the roots signifying the inspiration of the Canticle, the trunk representing the philosophical and theological teachings of medieval universities, and the branches symbolizing various sciences.
Unveiling the Canticle of the Creatures
Dating back to 1224, the Canticle of the Creatures was penned by the founder of the Franciscan Order just two years before his passing. This poetic masterpiece, consisting of 23 verses, celebrates the different elements of creation, from the sun and moon to the wind and water, making it one of the most ancient texts in Italian literature.
