Pope Francis Laid to Rest at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica following low-profile ceremony

By Romania Journal Last updated Apr 26, 2025

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Pope Francis was buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, 4.5 km from the Vatican, after a procession marked by simplicity and modesty, as the former sovereign pontiff lived his entire life.

The funeral in Rome ended after three hours, with the burial service being private.

According to the Vatican’s official communication, Pope Francis’ funeral service lasted approximately an hour and a half, a significant departure from tradition (such ceremonies usually last between two and three hours), and will be followed by a procession of about 5 km through Rome, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

The very place chosen by Francis for his burial breaks with tradition, as all popes of the last hundred years have been buried in the Vatican. The tomb, devoid of lavish ornaments, will have a single inscription in Latin – “Franciscus”. Pope Francis’ body was placed in a single wooden coffin, lined with zinc (protects against moisture), although traditionally, the ritual involves the use of three coffins (one inside the other) made of cypress, zinc (or lead) and oak. The choice of Pope Francis is a final declaration of humility

The funeral was attended by 164 official delegations, including 54 heads of state and 12 monarchs. Confirmed leaders include US President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Romanian interim President Ilie Bolojan, as well as members of the royal families of Britain and Spain.

Joe and Jill Biden also arrived at the funeral and took their seats in St. Peter’s Square. Prince William also arrived at the event, replacing his father, King Charles.

During the three days of public display in St. Peter’s Basilica, more than 250,000 people paid their respects, far exceeding expectations, leading to extended opening hours. Then, at the end of the three days (Friday), the coffin was closed and sealed. Also placed inside were a bag of coins minted during Francis’ pontificate and a one-page document summarizing his life and achievements, emphasizing his defense of the innocent and his dedication to the marginalized. The conclave to choose Pope Francis’ successor will begin on May 5, after the nine-day period of national mourning ends.

Zelensky and Trump met at the funeral of Pope Francis

Volodymyr Zelensky met with Donald Trump, the Kiev leader’s spokesman told Suspilne. The two were at the Vatican where they attended the funeral of Pope Francis, writes kyivindependent. “It was a very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic, if we achieve common results,” said the Ukrainian president after the meeting with the head of the White House.

“Good meeting. We discussed a lot one on one. Hoping for results on everything we covered. Protecting lives of our people. Full and unconditional ceasefire. Reliable and lasting peace that will prevent another war from breaking out. Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results. Thank you @POTUS.” Zelensky said on X platform.

The meeting between the two lasted only a few minutes, as Trump, Zelenskiy and other world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, were seen shortly after joining the funeral ceremony, the source said. The two presidents agreed to hold further talks, Sky News reported, citing Vatican sources. It is the first meeting between the two since the White House humiliation in February, a senior official told AFP.

Applause upon Zelensky’s arrival

Several rounds of applause were heard when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived at the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican on Saturday, according to ABC News.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was greeted with applause as he arrived at St. Peter’s Square to attend the funeral of the Pope. The president attended the funeral, despite rumors that he would not attend the service, along with his wife, Olena. Those present in St. Peter’s Square stood and applauded as the Ukrainian president descended the steps of the place of worship.

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