Farewell scenes of Pope Francis in Rome depicted in photographs
Pope Francis is laid to rest at St. Mary Major Basilica, a powerful choice filled with historical, personal, and symbolic significance.
This historic event marks Pope Francis as the eighth pope interred in the Basilica, a significant papal monument since the Middle Ages. The basilica, one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, is home to the venerated Salus Populi Romani Marian icon. Noteworthy burials include Pius V, a Dominican reformer, and Sixtus V, a Franciscan. The choice of Saint Mary Major echoes the basilica’s ties to religious orders.
For Pope Francis, the basilica held deep personal significance. As a cardinal, he frequently prayed there, and his first act as pope in 2013 was to visit the tomb of St. Pius V, an act he repeated throughout his papacy. His burial niche lies adjacent to the chapel housing the Salus Populi Romani, an icon he publicly venerated and associated with his Marian piety.
The decision to be buried at Saint Mary Major instead of St. Peter’s Basilica marks a departure from a century-old tradition. This choice highlights the Pope's emphasis on Marian devotion over proximity to St. Peter’s tomb, signaling humility and connection to Rome’s faithful. The basilica’s Augustinian legend, linked to a miraculous snowfall marking its founding, strengthens its role as a testament to Mary’s divine motherhood, a core Catholic dogma.
This decision reflects Pope Francis’ legacy of decentralizing papal symbolism while affirming Mary’s centrality in his spiritual vision. The funeral procession and open-air mass were attended by over 400,000 people and a host of world leaders. The Pope was praised for being a "pope close to the people, with an open heart to all." The homily was met with numerous rounds of applause, underscoring Francis' enduring connection with the masses.
The funeral of Pope Francis took place at St. Mary Major Basilica, a location chosen to emphasize his deep personal connection and Marian devotion. This marks the eighth pope to be interred in this basilica, a significant monument since the Middle Ages. With celebrities and world leaders in attendance, the funeral procession and open-air mass highlighted Francis' reputation as a "pope close to the people." The entertainment industry, no stranger to celebrity funerals, was struck by the massive turnout and the cardinal's humility in choosing burial away from the traditional site of St. Peter's Basilica.
