The stone tomb, marked with Francis's name, is adorned with a single white rose nestled beneath a softly illuminated crucifix. Since the church opened its doors to the public on Sunday morning, thousands have come to honor the pope, who passed away at the age of 88 earlier in the week.
The choice of burial location has sparked discussions, as traditionally, popes are interred within the Vatican. However, Pope Francis had expressed a desire to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a connection he cherished since his days as a cardinal. Visitors to the site have expressed deep emotions; Italian Rosario Correale described the experience as "very emotional," while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska remarked on the simplicity of the resting place reflecting the gentle nature of Francis himself.
The basilica, the first dedicated to the Virgin Mary, holds a rich history dating back to the 4th Century. It is situated conveniently close to central Rome, in contrast to the Vatican's typical burial sites. The sentiments of pilgrims resonated with the late pope's commitment to lasting values, notably his teachings of unity and peace exemplified during his extensive papacy.
Pope Francis's public funeral drew an extensive international presence, including global leaders and monarchs, with heartfelt tributes resounding throughout the ceremony. The powerful message of his legacy was encapsulated by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who spoke poignantly about the pontiff's passionate calls for building bridges across societal divides.
In the wake of mourning, attention will soon shift to the conclave tasked with selecting the next pope, anticipated to occur on the first week of May with a historic gathering of 135 cardinals. The legacy of Francis continues to inspire, and his chosen final resting place reflects the simplicity and depth of his life's work.
The choice of burial location has sparked discussions, as traditionally, popes are interred within the Vatican. However, Pope Francis had expressed a desire to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a connection he cherished since his days as a cardinal. Visitors to the site have expressed deep emotions; Italian Rosario Correale described the experience as "very emotional," while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska remarked on the simplicity of the resting place reflecting the gentle nature of Francis himself.
The basilica, the first dedicated to the Virgin Mary, holds a rich history dating back to the 4th Century. It is situated conveniently close to central Rome, in contrast to the Vatican's typical burial sites. The sentiments of pilgrims resonated with the late pope's commitment to lasting values, notably his teachings of unity and peace exemplified during his extensive papacy.
Pope Francis's public funeral drew an extensive international presence, including global leaders and monarchs, with heartfelt tributes resounding throughout the ceremony. The powerful message of his legacy was encapsulated by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who spoke poignantly about the pontiff's passionate calls for building bridges across societal divides.
In the wake of mourning, attention will soon shift to the conclave tasked with selecting the next pope, anticipated to occur on the first week of May with a historic gathering of 135 cardinals. The legacy of Francis continues to inspire, and his chosen final resting place reflects the simplicity and depth of his life's work.
