Thousands Pay Respects as Pope Francis’ Tomb Opens in Rome

Pope Francis’ Tomb Opens to Thousands of Faithful in Rome

The tomb of Pope Francis, located in St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome, opened to the public on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This marked the second day of official mourning following the late pontiff’s passing on Easter Monday. Thousands of Roman Catholic faithful gathered to pay their respects to the beloved pope, whose simple white tomb bears the Latin inscription ‘Franciscus.’

Public Visitation and Emotional Tributes

Visitors filed past the tomb, many crossing themselves or pausing briefly to take photos. A single white rose was placed on the tomb, illuminated by a warm light. The late pope’s pectoral cross was reproduced on the wall above the tomb, adding to the solemn atmosphere. Ushers worked to manage the large crowds, urging visitors to keep moving to accommodate the long lines forming outside the basilica.

Rosario Correale, a visitor from Salerno, Italy, described his experience as deeply emotional. ‘I see all the people are truly moved. He has truly left a mark on us,’ he said. Another visitor, Elias Caravalhal, who resides in Rome, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to honor Pope Francis. ‘Pope Francis for me was an inspiration, a guide,’ he shared, adding that he visited the tomb to thank the pope for his contributions to the Church and society.

Special Mass in St. Peter’s Square

On the same day, a special Mass was celebrated in St. Peter’s Square by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. The Mass drew an estimated 200,000 attendees, including many young people who had initially traveled to Rome for the canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint. Cardinal Parolin, considered a potential contender for the papacy, delivered a heartfelt homily. ‘The shepherd whom the Lord gave to his people, Pope Francis, has ended his earthly life and has left us,’ he said, comparing the grief of the faithful to that of the apostles mourning Jesus’ death.

Francis’ Humble Burial Choice

Pope Francis chose to be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica, a decision reflecting his humility and simplicity. The basilica houses an icon of the Madonna, which the late pope revered deeply. According to the archbishop overseeing the basilica, this choice aligns with Francis’ ‘humble, simple, and essential’ life. The pope had often prayed before the Byzantine-style icon of the Madonna, both before and after his international trips during his 12-year tenure.

Amaya Morris, a tourist from Los Angeles, California, shared her admiration for the late pope’s burial choice. ‘I thought it was amazing that he wanted to be buried here in this basilica. Out of all of the ones, he chose this one,’ she said.

Preparations for the Conclave

The opening of Pope Francis’ tomb coincides with the second of nine days of official mourning. Following this period, a conclave will be convened to elect the next pope. The conclave is expected to begin between May 5 and May 10, with cardinals from around the world already gathering in Rome. During this time, the cardinals will engage in discussions to determine the future direction of the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church.

The conclave will also mark a significant moment in Church history, as Pope Francis was the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican. He was also the first to be interred in St. Mary Major Basilica in more than 300 years.

Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, leaves behind a legacy of humility, compassion, and reform. Throughout his papacy, he emphasized simplicity, inclusivity, and a focus on the marginalized. His choice of burial site and the overwhelming public response to his passing underscore the profound impact he had on millions worldwide.

As the Catholic Church prepares for its next chapter, the memory of Pope Francis will undoubtedly continue to inspire both the faithful and the leaders tasked with carrying forward his vision.