“Bridges of Peace between Italy and Bahrain: The Legacy of Francis.”

The Embassy of Italy in Manama and This is Bahrain Celebrate the 800th Anniversary of the Death of St. Francis of Assisi in the Year of Isa Al Kabir

The Embassy of Italy in Manama, in collaboration with This is Bahrain, has announced a landmark celebration marking two historic milestones: the 800th anniversary of the passing of St. Francis of Assisi and the Year of Isa Al Kabir. The initiative reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to dialogue, coexistence, and respect for diversity.

St. Francis of Assisi (1181–1228), remembered globally as a symbol of peace and dialogue, is known for his historic encounter with the Sultan of Egypt in 1219, which demonstrated respect across cultural and religious differences. Centuries later, Isa Al Kabir, Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa (1869–1932), carried a similar vision in Bahrain, fostering openness, welcoming diverse communities, and laying the foundations of a society built on exchange and understanding.

Though separated by time and culture, both figures are united by a shared legacy that highlights compassion, openness, and the value of diversity as essential pillars of peaceful coexistence.

To honour this heritage, the Embassy of Italy and This is Bahrain will host a series of events in June 2026 celebrating the values of coexistence, compassion, and dialogue. These include an intercultural and interreligious conference bringing together leaders and scholars to reflect on St. Francis of Assisi’s message of peace, including his encounter with the Sultan of Egypt, the “Economy of St. Francis” as a response to modern scarcity and poverty, and the “Ecology of St. Francis” as a call for environmental responsibility and resource renewal.

The programme will also feature a national drawing competition for Bahraini schoolchildren and young artists, encouraging creative expression around themes of peace, friendship, and nature, as well as a concert titled Cantico delle Creature, celebrating harmony with creation and humanity.

Speaking at the press conference, Andrea Catalano, Ambassador of Italy to Manama, said that eight centuries on, the message of St. Francis continues to resonate. He noted that the saint’s call for peace and dialogue remains deeply relevant in a world facing division and conflict, emphasizing that harmony is built not through conquest, but through compassion, bridges, and dialogue.

From her side, Betsy Mathieson, Chairperson of This is Bahrain, highlighted St. Francis’s support for the empowerment of women through The Poor Clares, founded with Saint Clare of Assisi, which enabled women to live with purpose and influence. She drew a parallel with Bahrain, noting that under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Council for Women was established to advance women’s role across all sectors, ensuring their full participation in national development as equal partners in shaping the Kingdom’s future.