The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Francis’ final resting place at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
The tomb, reflecting the late pontiff’s wishes for simplicity, features a single white rose, a wall-mounted crucifix, and the Latin inscription “Franciscus.” This marks the first time in over a century that a pope has been buried outside St. Peter’s Basilica .
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, due to a cerebral stroke. His funeral Mass was held on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square, drawing an estimated 250,000 mourners, including numerous world leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The service was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals.
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In accordance with his final testament, Pope Francis requested a modest burial, choosing the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore due to his deep spiritual connection with the site. He frequently visited the basilica to pray before the icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, especially before and after his apostolic journeys .
Following the funeral, the Pope’s coffin was transported through Rome to the basilica, where a private ceremony was held. The procession route was lined with mourners, reflecting the widespread admiration for the pontiff’s humility and dedication to social justice.
The Vatican has declared a nine-day period of official mourning, during which thousands are expected to visit the tomb to pay their respects .