By Rorisang Modiba
- About 250,000 mourners, including world leaders and the poor, paid their last respects to Pope Francis.
- His simple burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major reflected his lifelong message of humility and service.
Pope Francis has been buried in a plain underground tomb at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome — exactly the way he wanted: simple, humble, and without any grand titles.
On Saturday 26 April 2025, about 250,000 people, rich and poor, gathered to say goodbye.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re said Francis was “a pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone,” according to reports.
After the funeral mass in St Peter’s Square, Francis’ coffin was quietly moved to the basilica for a private burial.
While world leaders and royalty attended, it was prisoners, transgender people, migrants and the poor who welcomed him into the church.
The late pope had always insisted on being seen not as a grand figure, but as a priest serving ordinary people.
His last ceremony reflected that wish.
Leaders from around the world, including US President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei and French President Emmanuel Macron, paid their respects.
The Vatican said 164 delegations attended, including 54 heads of state and 12 sovereigns.
Thousands of mourners queued for hours over three days to see Francis’ body, dressed in simple red robes with worn black shoes, a final symbol of his modest lifestyle.
The Vatican even kept the basilica open overnight because of the large crowds.
One of the last mourners, Angele Bilegue, said she visited Francis’ coffin three times. “He was my friend,” she said tearfully.
Inside the coffin, Francis was buried with a white cloth over his face, a bag of coins minted during his papacy, and a single page telling the story of his life — from his humble beginnings in Argentina to his years as pope.
Neighbors Aurelia Ballarini, 72, and Francesca Codato, 78, also came to say goodbye. Ballarini said she saw Francis as a grandfather figure and couldn’t stop crying. Codato said she felt guilty for not appreciating him earlier but now understood his humanity.
Meanwhile, the cardinals are preparing for the next big step choosing a new pope. Official talks will start after a nine-day mourning period ends on 5 May.
Security in Rome was tight, with more than 4,000 police and soldiers deployed and fighter jets on standby. Officials expect up to 300,000 mourners along the route to the basilica.
Pope Francis’ grave is marked simply with “Franciscus” on a marble slab — just as he asked.
On Sunday, cardinals will return to the basilica to pray before the Madonna icon that Francis loved so much.
Pictured above: Pope Francis.
Image source: @francisus
