Pope Francis' Tomb Opens to Public Amid Nationwide Mourning

Pope Francis, who died at age 88, was laid to rest in a simple white marble tomb at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, honoring his wishes for a humble and unadorned burial. His tomb, engraved only with 'Franciscus' and marked by a single white rose, stands out for its simplicity compared to previous popes and incorporates marble from Liguria, reflecting his family heritage. The choice to be buried outside Vatican City breaks with tradition, as Francis is the first pontiff in more than a century to be interred beyond St. Peter’s Basilica. Crowds of mourners and world leaders attended his funeral, and thousands continue to line up at the basilica to pay their respects. The days following his burial are marked by official mourning and funeral rites, as the Vatican prepares for a conclave to elect his successor. The late pope’s final journey notably included Rome’s marginalized, underscoring his lifelong commitment to humility and compassion.