Pope Francis to Be Laid to Rest at Basilica of St. Mary Major in Historic Burial
The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 in his residence at Casa Santa Marta. His funeral and burial are scheduled for Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome — a place of profound personal devotion for the pontiff.
This marks the first time since the 17th century that a pope will be buried at this basilica. The last was Pope Clement IX. The Basilica, one of the four major papal churches, holds immense historical and spiritual significance. It is also the resting place of saints such as Matthew and Jerome, seven other pontiffs, and the renowned Baroque artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis often visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major, especially before and after his apostolic journeys, entrusting each mission to the Virgin Mary. The choice of this site reflects his enduring Marian devotion.
In accordance with the humility that shaped his life and ministry, the pontiff had requested a simple burial. His final resting place will be a modest grave bearing only a plain inscription — in keeping with the pastoral image he maintained throughout his leadership.
Ahead of the funeral, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis’ body may lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica beginning Wednesday, April 23, to allow the faithful to offer their final respects. The final decision awaits approval by the College of Cardinals.
The Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, will lead the funeral rites and has announced the beginning of General Congregations from Tuesday. These meetings will prepare for the upcoming Conclave, expected to take place between May 5 and 10.
Global tributes have poured in following the pope’s passing. Italy and India have declared three days of state mourning, and several world leaders are expected to attend the funeral in Rome. Notably, Pope Francis met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance just hours before his death, following his participation in Easter Mass despite his deteriorating health.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrants, Francis was the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope. His 2013 election — following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI — ushered in a new era for the Catholic Church. Rejecting the opulence of the papal palace, he resided in the guesthouse at Santa Marta and led with humility, compassion, and a vision of reform.
Pope Francis will be remembered as a shepherd of the people — a pope who walked with the marginalized, listened to the unheard, and served with profound humility. His legacy continues to resonate across the globe, leaving behind a Church forever shaped by his inclusive spirit and pastoral heart.
