The Vatican has released images for the first time of Pope Francis' tomb located in the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where he was laid to rest this past Saturday. The tombstone bears the name of the deceased pontiff, and a single white rose rests beneath a crucifix, illuminated by a gentle light.
A marble table adorned with paintings and icons often held a fresh white rose, symbolizing Pope Francis' deep connection to "Teresita," Saint Teresa of Lisieux, whom he frequently invoked for guidance and intercession in personal and communal challenges. "A white rose now rests on another marble, the Ligurian-origin plaque inscribed with 'Franciscus' in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, under which Pope Francis' mortal remains lie. This is not an artistic choice, but one of continuity and devotion," the Holy See stated.
Approximately 400,000 individuals attended the grand yet solemn funeral ceremony in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. Among the attendees were global figures such as Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer, Prince William, and Volodymyr Zelensky. Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, was transported to Santa Maria Maggiore for a private burial, marking him as the first pope in over 120 years to be interred outside the Vatican.
This Sunday, Catholic faithful began visiting the tomb to bid farewell to the Argentine pontiff. His will specified a simple burial "in the ground, without particular decoration," marked only by his papal name in Latin: Franciscus. Santa Maria Maggiore, located about three kilometers from the Vatican, held a special place in Francis’ heart due to his devotion to Mary, Mother of God, where he prayed before and after each international trip.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis was the first Jesuit pope and the inaugural Latin American pontiff. Throughout his papacy, he championed a vision of the Church that was inclusive, compassionate, and committed to the marginalized. His efforts were directed toward peace, environmental issues, interfaith dialogue, and addressing abuses within the Church.
In 1957, as a young man, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung due to a severe infection, and respiratory illnesses plagued him throughout his life, even preventing a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2023. In April 2024, Pope Francis approved a new edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the liturgical book governing papal funerals, requesting that his rites be simple, focused on faith in the risen Christ rather than worldly power symbols, as explained by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Liturgical Celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Francis' Tomb and Funeral
Why was Pope Francis buried at Santa Maria Maggiore?
Santa Maria Maggiore held a special significance for Pope Francis due to his devotion to Mary, Mother of God. It was a place where he prayed before and after each international trip, making it a fitting resting place.
What is the significance of the white rose on Pope Francis' tomb?
The white rose symbolizes Pope Francis' connection to Saint Teresa of Lisieux, whom he frequently sought for guidance and intercession. It represents continuity and devotion rather than an artistic choice.
Who attended Pope Francis' funeral?
The funeral was attended by around 400,000 people, including notable figures such as Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer, Prince William, and Volodymyr Zelensky.