Pope Francis's Body Lies in State at St. Peter's Basilica for Public Mourning

Transfer of Pope Francis's Body

• 🕊️ The body of the late Pope Francis was moved from his residence at Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter's Basilica.
• ⛪ The procession, accompanied by cardinals and priests, moved the open coffin through St. Peter's Square.
• 👏 Mourners, who had been queuing since early morning, applauded as the procession arrived.

Public Viewing and Basilica Details

• ⏳ Pope Francis's body will lie in state at the Basilica until the funeral on Saturday.
• 📍 The coffin is placed before the Altar of the Confession, believed to be above the tomb of St. Peter.
• 🖼️ This altar is covered by Bernini's bronze baldaquin, beneath Michelangelo's dome.
• 👑 The Basilica will be open until midnight for the faithful to pay their respects.

Pope Francis's Appearance and Burial Plans

• 🕯️ Pope Francis is lying in an open coffin, temporarily embalmed, wearing a miter and red vestments, holding rosary beads.
• 🗓️ The basilica closes at 7:00 p.m. on Friday for the funeral on Saturday morning.
• 🌍 The funeral will be attended by leaders, royalty, and heads of state from around the world.
• 🏞️ Following the funeral, the coffin will be taken to the Basilica of Santa Maria Major for burial, a departure from the Vatican tradition.
• 🕊️ This burial choice is symbolic of Francis's desire for a humbler, simpler end.