Images of Pope Francis's Resting Place Revealed Amid Global Mourning

Thousands of people have begun paying their respects at the newly unveiled tomb of the late Pope Francis at Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, following a deeply emotional public funeral attended by dignitaries worldwide.

Images of Pope Francis's tomb have been recently published, showcasing a simple memorial adorned with a single white rose lying on the stone surface that bears his name. Located in the Santa Maria Maggiore church—one of Rome's prominent basilicas—the tomb is illuminated under a softly glowing spotlight, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection.

The late pontiff was honored in a private ceremony following his public funeral held at the Vatican on Saturday. Following the funeral, thousands flocked to the basilica as it opened its doors to the public on Sunday, eager to pay their final respects to the beloved church leader, who passed away at age 88 on Monday.

Local resident Rosario Correale expressed profound emotions upon seeing the tomb, remarking, "He really left a mark on us." Pilgrims like Maria Brzezinska shared similar sentiments, noting that the resting place truly reflected the simplicity and humility of Pope Francis’s character.

Notably, Santa Maria Maggiore was significant to Francis, revered for its dedication to the Virgin Mary and representing the Pope's devotion to her. The basilica was his chosen final resting spot, a decision he had expressed as early as 2022.

The funeral saw a notable gathering of heads of state and global leaders, as well as a large number of devoted Catholics who lined the streets of Rome to honor Pope Francis's legacy. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re highlighted the Pope's message of unity, urging the world to "build bridges, not walls."

While Pope Francis's final journey witnessed a slow procession across the city, authorities estimated the attendance to have reached 140,000 mourners, marking a significant farewell for the pontiff who spent his life advocating for peace.

As this period of mourning comes to a close, the Catholic Church will soon shift its focus toward appointing a successor to Pope Francis, with the largest conclave in modern history anticipated to take place as early as early May, featuring 135 cardinals.