Pope Francis's Final Resting Place: A Release of Images from Santa Maria Maggiore

After a public funeral, the late pope was interred at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church he cherished, as mourners pay their respects at his final resting place.

Images of the tomb of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, have been shared following his funeral held at the Vatican. Situated in Rome's Santa Maria Maggiore church, these photographs reveal a serene stone tomb adorned with a single white rose and illuminated by a spotlight, marking the end of a pontificate filled with grace and humility.

The late pontiff's burial, held in private after a public ceremony on Saturday, reflects his deep connection to the basilica where he often prayed as a cardinal. Since opening to the public on Sunday, numerous mourners have flooded to the church to honor Pope Francis, underscoring the profound impact he had on many lives. One visitor, Rosario Correale, expressed his emotions, stating, "He really left a mark on us," while Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska commented on the simplicity of the tomb being fitting for the pontiff.

Santa Maria Maggiore holds historical significance as the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, whom Pope Francis deeply revered. The choice of this church for his burial site stems from his wish to be interred there, a desire he expressed in 2022. "Out of all the [churches], he chose this one. It's really humbling to be able to be here," noted Amaya Morris, another pilgrim.

During the funeral service, attended by global dignitaries, hymns echoed through the air, and Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re paid tribute to the pope's encouragement to "build bridges, not walls," emphasizing his commitment to peace. Following the ceremony, crowds lined the streets of Rome, showcasing heartfelt reverence as the repurposed white popemobile carried Pope Francis's coffin past iconic landmarks.

As the world begins to mourn the loss of this remarkable leader, attention will soon shift to the pope's successor, with cardinal elections anticipated in the coming months, reflecting on the legacy and direction of the Catholic Church.