What is the Eucharistic Miracle of Lanciano?

According to tradition, in the 8th century in Lanciano the host turned into flesh and the wine into blood during a Mass. Both relics are still kept in the church of San Francesco.

When did the miracle happen?

In the 8th century, commonly given as around the year 750. No exact date has been handed down.

What did science find?

In 1970–71 pathologist Odoardo Linoli established that the flesh is human heart muscle tissue and the blood is human blood of group AB. He found no preservatives.

What blood type is the blood?

Blood group AB, in both the flesh and the blood.

Did the WHO confirm the miracle?

This is often claimed. However, no such report by the World Health Organization can be found in any archive.

Where can the relics be seen?

In the Santuario del Miracolo Eucaristico, the church of San Francesco, Corso Roma 1, Lanciano. The relics stand behind the high altar and can be reached by a staircase.

Is there an admission fee?

No, admission is free. Donations to the shrine are welcome.

Do Catholics have to believe in the miracle?

No. Eucharistic miracles belong to private revelation. The Church permits their veneration but obliges no one to believe in them.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Miracle of Lanciano

Short and clear: the questions we are asked most often.

What is the Eucharistic Miracle of Lanciano?: According to tradition, in the 8th century in Lanciano the host turned into flesh and the wine into blood during a Mass. Both relics are still kept in the church of San Francesco.
When did the miracle happen?: In the 8th century, commonly given as around the year 750. No exact date has been handed down.
What did science find?: In 1970–71 pathologist Odoardo Linoli established that the flesh is human heart muscle tissue and the blood is human blood of group AB. He found no preservatives.
What blood type is the blood?: Blood group AB, in both the flesh and the blood.
Did the WHO confirm the miracle?: This is often claimed. However, no such report by the World Health Organization can be found in any archive.
Where can the relics be seen?: In the Santuario del Miracolo Eucaristico, the church of San Francesco, Corso Roma 1, Lanciano. The relics stand behind the high altar and can be reached by a staircase.
Is there an admission fee?: No, admission is free. Donations to the shrine are welcome.
Do Catholics have to believe in the miracle?: No. Eucharistic miracles belong to private revelation. The Church permits their veneration but obliges no one to believe in them.

Last updated: October 7, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions about the Miracle of Lanciano

Home

Quick Access