Overview

• President Sergio Mattarella signed into law the measure establishing 4 October as a national holiday honoring Saint Francis of Assisi.
• The law adds the date to Italy’s list of national holidays with full closing and labor effects for workplaces and public offices.
• A 1958 statute now designates the same day as a civil solemnity for Saint Catherine of Siena, creating two different legal regimes on one date.
• In a letter to the presidents of the Chamber and Senate, Mattarella flagged non‑constitutional “critical aspects” and invited corrective legislation.
• He suggested choosing one framework for 4 October and clarifying whether the holiday refers only to Saint Francis or also includes Saint Catherine, noting that schools’ initiatives cannot occur that day because it is now a day off.