Images of Pope Francis's tomb have been unveiled, capturing the somberness of the moment as thousands flock to pay their respects. The late pope was laid to rest in the Santa Maria Maggiore church during a private ceremony that followed his public funeral at the Vatican on Saturday. The stone tomb, adorned with a solitary white rose and situated beneath a crucifix illuminated by a gentle spotlight, bears the name he was known by during his papacy.
Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome's major basilicas, holds significant meaning for Pope Francis, who frequented it throughout his time as cardinal and pontiff. His burial there comes after he expressed a wish in 2022 to be interred in this church, which has been dedicated to the Virgin Mary since it was built in the 4th century. The church's senior priest shared this aspiration, noting the pope’s deep connection with the Virgin Mary.
Mourners lining up to visit the tomb have shared their emotional responses. Italian visitor Rosario Correale stated it was "very emotional" to see the resting place of a leader who made a substantial impact on their lives, while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska remarked how the simplicity of the tomb reflects the nature of the Pope himself.
Pope Francis's funeral drew not only heads of state but also hundreds of thousands of Catholics who showed their reverence along the streets leading to the Vatican. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, during the service, highlighted the pope's call for global cooperation, urging for "bridges, not walls," while simultaneous discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky added political significance to the proceedings.
After his public funeral, Francis's coffin was transported through the city in a repurposed white popemobile, where about 140,000 people stood in tribute. The pope's resting place remains an impromptu pilgrimage site, with attention now turning to the next papal conclave, expected to occur by early May, where 135 cardinals will gather to elect his successor. The magnitude of this conclave promises to be historic, marking a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.
