Pope Francis' simple final resting place draws emotional tributes in Rome

Images of Pope Francis’ tomb at Rome’s Santa Maria Maggiore basilica have been shared. A solitary white rose was seen resting on the stone grave, which carries his papal name beneath a softly lit crucifix.

Following a solemn public farewell at the Vatican on Saturday, Francis was laid to rest during a quiet private rite in one of Rome’s four major basilicas—a church he frequented both as a cardinal and during his papacy.

By early Sunday, mourners had gathered outside, eager to pay homage to the beloved pontiff, who passed away aged 88. Among them was Italian Rosario Correale, who described the experience as deeply moving. Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska noted how the modest tomb perfectly reflected Francis’ humble spirit.

The choice of Santa Maria Maggiore holds special meaning. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the 4th century, the basilica, located near the Colosseum and the busy Termini station, had long been close to Francis’ heart. He had expressed his wish to be buried there as early as 2022.

Visitors like Amaya Morris were touched by his selection, calling it a powerful and humbling decision.

The funeral drew world leaders, royalty, and massive crowds, with hymns filling the streets, sometimes interrupted by the roar of helicopters. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a stirring homily, reminding all of Francis’ enduring call to “build bridges, not walls.”

Afterward, the pope’s coffin traveled slowly across Rome’s landmarks in a repurposed white popemobile, cheered by 140,000 mourners.

A conclave to elect his successor is expected to begin soon.

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