Following Pope Francis’s burial on 26 April, pilgrims began arriving at his tomb in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to pay their respects. The basilica, home to the revered icon of Salus Populi Romani, holds a special place in the Pope’s heart, and he visited over 100 times during his pontificate. On Sunday, April 27, faithful from various parts of the world came to pray at the tomb, which is marked with a simple marble slab inscribed with “FRANCISCVS.”
The tomb, located in a niche between two chapels, is illuminated by a spotlight that also shines on a small crucifix above it. Vatican gendarmes are present to ensure the site’s security while visitors pray, recite the rosary, and take photographs. Many were drawn to the basilica to honor the Pope’s memory, fulfilling his last wish to rest in the place he loved.
The burial in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a testament to Pope Francis’s devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly the Salus Populi Romani icon. His funeral drew hundreds of thousands of faithful, with estimates suggesting around 400,000 people attended the farewell ceremony. As pilgrims continue to visit the tomb, they find solace in praying near the Pope’s final resting place.