As tributes continue to pour in for the late Pope Francis, newly released images of his tomb reveal a poignant scene at Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome, where thousands of mourners are paying their respects following his public funeral.
Images of Pope Francis's Final Resting Place Unveiled

Images of Pope Francis's Final Resting Place Unveiled
New photographs of the late pontiff's tomb capture the serene atmosphere at Santa Maria Maggiore church.
Images of Pope Francis's tomb at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome have emerged, showcasing a simple yet elegant tribute. A single white rose rests on his stone tomb, which bears the pontiff's name, illuminated softly beneath a crucifix. Pope Francis was laid to rest here in a private ceremony after his public funeral at the Vatican over the weekend.
On Sunday morning, the church welcomed thousands of mourners eager to honor the late pope, who passed away at the age of 88. Attendees described an emotional atmosphere as they stood before his tomb. One mourner, Rosario Correale, expressed the profound impact that Pope Francis had on people’s lives, while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska noted that the simplicity of the tomb reflected the character of the pope himself.
Santa Maria Maggiore is significant for Francis; he had often visited during his time as cardinal and had conveyed a desire to be buried there back in 2022. This basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was built in the 4th century and stands at a distance from the Vatican, where popes are traditionally interred. Mourners appreciate the symbolism of Francis's choice, which resonates with his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Pope Francis's funeral was marked by the presence of global leaders, notable dignitaries, and countless Catholic faithful who filled the streets of Rome, paying their last respects. The ceremony was underscored by hymns resonating beneath the soaring sound of overflying helicopters, a vivid reminder of the pope's legacy—one aimed at fostering unity and understanding in a divided world.
After the public service, his coffin was carried through the city in a slow procession, garnering admiration from an estimated 140,000 attendees who applauded as the vehicle travelled past some of Rome's historical landmarks. As the period of mourning continues, attention is now shifting toward the upcoming conclave, expected to gather 135 cardinals to elect the next pope, likely set to take place in early May, marking a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
On Sunday morning, the church welcomed thousands of mourners eager to honor the late pope, who passed away at the age of 88. Attendees described an emotional atmosphere as they stood before his tomb. One mourner, Rosario Correale, expressed the profound impact that Pope Francis had on people’s lives, while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska noted that the simplicity of the tomb reflected the character of the pope himself.
Santa Maria Maggiore is significant for Francis; he had often visited during his time as cardinal and had conveyed a desire to be buried there back in 2022. This basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was built in the 4th century and stands at a distance from the Vatican, where popes are traditionally interred. Mourners appreciate the symbolism of Francis's choice, which resonates with his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Pope Francis's funeral was marked by the presence of global leaders, notable dignitaries, and countless Catholic faithful who filled the streets of Rome, paying their last respects. The ceremony was underscored by hymns resonating beneath the soaring sound of overflying helicopters, a vivid reminder of the pope's legacy—one aimed at fostering unity and understanding in a divided world.
After the public service, his coffin was carried through the city in a slow procession, garnering admiration from an estimated 140,000 attendees who applauded as the vehicle travelled past some of Rome's historical landmarks. As the period of mourning continues, attention is now shifting toward the upcoming conclave, expected to gather 135 cardinals to elect the next pope, likely set to take place in early May, marking a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.