St. Francis, whose name was chosen by the current pope, symbolizes love for the poor, peace, and creation—all key priorities for the pontiff. Groups from all over Italy made their way through a town of grey and brown stone houses that look little changed from when the saint was born here more than 840 years ago.

Pope Francis is showing a "good response" to his treatment in hospital for double pneumonia and his overall condition is gradually improving, the Vatican said on Saturday. Francis, 88, has been in Rome's Gemelli hospital for more than three weeks with a severe respiratory infection that has required continuously evolving treatment.