In a heartfelt decision, Pope Francis, who frequently visited the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, has chosen it as his final resting place, reflecting his devotion to the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore: Pope Francis's Chosen Final Resting Place
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore: Pope Francis's Chosen Final Resting Place
Pope Francis's deep connection to Santa Maria Maggiore highlights the significance of the basilica as his final resting place.
The church, an iconic 4th-century basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, has been a significant site for Pope Francis throughout his papacy. Each time he returned to Rome, he would make it a point to pay his respects, emphasizing his profound connection to the location. Located near bustling landmarks such as the Colosseum and Mid-City's Termini Station, the basilica holds historical significance as one of the four major basilicas in Rome and offers a sense of "real" Roman life.
This Saturday, the church will be the site where Pope Francis's journey comes to an end. Santa Maria Maggiore is not only known for its stunning architecture, adorned with chapels and mosaics but also boasts the burial sites of seven other popes. Among its notable relics is a cherished icon of the Virgin Mary, the same one to which Pope Francis often turned in prayer as he embarked on his travels.
A senior priest at the basilica, Rolandas Makrickas, recounted how he broached the subject of burial with the Pope. After initially denying the idea of being buried away from St. Peter's, the Pope later relayed to Makrickas that "the Virgin Mary has told me to prepare my tomb." They decided that the Pope’s final resting place would be next to the beloved icon of Mary.
As news of his passing spread, thousands are flocking to Santa Maria Maggiore to pay their respects. Inside, the atmosphere is a mix of reverence and peaceful reflection, with visitors engaging in ritual practices like confession. Many, like Pat from Manchester, feel a spiritual connection to the site, describing it as breathtaking and expansive.
On the day of Pope Francis's final journey, the basilica will briefly close to the public, allowing for a moment of reflection before it reopens, welcoming visitors to admire its beauty and pay tribute. There, beside the Virgin Mary’s icon, Pope Francis will quietly rest among the prayers and memories of those who cherished him.
This Saturday, the church will be the site where Pope Francis's journey comes to an end. Santa Maria Maggiore is not only known for its stunning architecture, adorned with chapels and mosaics but also boasts the burial sites of seven other popes. Among its notable relics is a cherished icon of the Virgin Mary, the same one to which Pope Francis often turned in prayer as he embarked on his travels.
A senior priest at the basilica, Rolandas Makrickas, recounted how he broached the subject of burial with the Pope. After initially denying the idea of being buried away from St. Peter's, the Pope later relayed to Makrickas that "the Virgin Mary has told me to prepare my tomb." They decided that the Pope’s final resting place would be next to the beloved icon of Mary.
As news of his passing spread, thousands are flocking to Santa Maria Maggiore to pay their respects. Inside, the atmosphere is a mix of reverence and peaceful reflection, with visitors engaging in ritual practices like confession. Many, like Pat from Manchester, feel a spiritual connection to the site, describing it as breathtaking and expansive.
On the day of Pope Francis's final journey, the basilica will briefly close to the public, allowing for a moment of reflection before it reopens, welcoming visitors to admire its beauty and pay tribute. There, beside the Virgin Mary’s icon, Pope Francis will quietly rest among the prayers and memories of those who cherished him.
