The Legend of Saint Francis and the Wolf of Gubbio
In the town of Gubbio, Italy, a fearsome wolf was wreaking havoc, attacking livestock and killing anyone who tried to stop him. The terrified villagers were at a loss. “We’ve never faced such a beast,” one villager exclaimed. “He killed a shepherd and then his brother and father too!”
The mayor, determined to end the terror, sent his three best guards into the woods. “Find the wolf and slay him,” he commanded. But only one guard returned, gravely injured. “The wolf… he’s too powerful,” the guard gasped before collapsing.
Desperate, the mayor decided to seek help from Francis of Assisi, renowned for his ability to speak with animals. He sent messengers to find Francis. When they located him, they begged, “Please, Brother Francis, come to Gubbio. Only you can save us from this wolf.”
Moved by their plea, Francis agreed. “We will leave at dawn,” he said. “Tonight, rest and pray with us.”
The next morning, Francis and the messengers journeyed to Gubbio. As they neared the town, Francis noticed the fear in the villagers’ eyes. “What will you do?” the mayor asked anxiously.
“I will speak to the wolf,” Francis replied calmly. “Perhaps there is more to this than we know.”
At dawn, Francis walked alone into the woods. The wolf soon appeared, growling and ready to attack. “Come closer, Brother Wolf,” Francis called out, making the sign of the cross. “I mean you no harm. Let us speak in peace.”
The wolf hesitated, then stopped. “Why have you done this?” Francis asked gently. “Why have you attacked these people?”
“I was left behind by my pack,” the wolf growled softly. “I was injured and could only hunt slow prey like sheep. I had no choice but to defend myself when the humans attacked me.”
Francis nodded with understanding. “I see. But your actions have caused great fear and pain. Would you agree to a truce? The people of Gubbio will feed you if you promise not to harm them or their animals.”
The wolf looked thoughtful, then agreed. “I will do as you ask, but will they still want to kill me?”
“I will speak to them on your behalf,” Francis assured him.
Together, Francis and the wolf returned to Gubbio. The townspeople gasped in fear. “Do not be afraid,” Francis called out. “The wolf comes in peace. He has promised to harm no one if you will feed him.”
“Feed him?” one villager muttered. “Can we trust him?”
“The wolf regrets his actions,” Francis said. “He was only trying to survive. Our Savior teaches forgiveness. Can we not find it in our hearts to forgive this creature?”
The mayor and villagers huddled together, discussing the offer. After some time, the mayor spoke. “We will agree, but the wolf must keep his word.”
The wolf bowed his head in agreement. “I will.”
The first to act was the widow of the shepherd who had been killed. With tears in her eyes, she brought out food for the wolf. “I forgive you,” she said, her voice trembling.
The wolf humbly accepted the offering, and soon, the entire town joined in. “We have a new friend in Brother Wolf,” Francis declared.
From that day on, the wolf lived peacefully among the people of Gubbio. For two more years, Brother Wolf was cared for by the townsfolk, who had learned the power of compassion and forgiveness.
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![The image depicts a vintage postcard featuring an old European cityscape with prominent Gothic architecture. In the foreground, there's a large open square where several people are seen walking and conversing casually; their attire suggests it could be from late 19th to early 20th-century Europe.
Two imposing towers rise in the background, characteristic of medieval church or cathedral structures, indicating that this might be an image taken near a significant religious building. The buildings have pointed arches, ribbed vaults and large windows with tracery, which are typical features of Gothic architecture.
The overall color tone is monochromatic, suggesting it could either be the original paper's age or processed to mimic antique photographs.
There’s text on the postcard in various languages: "BOLOGNA — Tombe dei Glossatori e Chiesa S. Francesco," indicating that this image likely shows a historical aspect of Bologna including 'The Graves of the Glossators and Church St. Francis.' The artist, publisher's details are also noted along with an illustration credit to Ferro Candilera.
In terms of context or background story about this specific landmark in Bologna: "Piazza Malpighi" is a historical square where one can find the 'Abside' (abbey) of St. Francis and archeological remains from the medieval period, which may be what's being referred to here as it fits with the Gothic architecture present.
The details sugge [...]](https://files.mastodon.social/cache/media_attachments/files/113/588/224/765/681/420/original/f6610b6ae3dd4717.jpeg)
