Pope Francis’s Coffin Arrives at St Mary Major for Burial

Rome: Pope Francis’s coffin arrived at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome on Saturday, marking the final resting place of the late pontiff. The coffin was transported from Saint Peter’s Basilica to Saint Mary Major using an adapted popemobile, which was refashioned as a hearse. This allowed mourners to observe the coffin as it made its way through the streets of Rome.

According to Ansa News Agency, thousands of mourners lined the streets along the route, offering applause as a gesture of respect. The late pontiff had a special connection to Saint Mary Major, frequently visiting the basilica for prayer both before and after his apostolic journeys. In his testament, he expressed his desire to be buried at Saint Mary Major, rather than the traditional resting place of St Peter’s Basilica chosen by most other popes.

The Vatican announced that from Sunday, the public would be able to visit Pope Francis’s tomb at Saint Mary Major. Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, after serving 12 years as the head of the Catholic Church.