Pope Francis’
mortal remains carried
to the Vatican Basilica

Today, Pope Francis’ mortal remains were carried in procession from the papal residence of Casa Santa Marta to Saint Peter's Basilica, where the faithful can pay their respects until Friday evening.

Following a moment of prayer in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, the coffin was carried through the Vatican’s Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs, under the Arch of the Bells, and into Saint Peter’s Square to then enter the Vatican Basilica through the main door. Over 20,000 people applauded the passing of the coffin, which was placed on the ground in front of the Altar of Confession. Cardinal Farrell then led the Liturgy of the Word, at the end of which the holy People of God began to pay their respects and bid farewell to the late Pontiff. Today the Basilica will remain open until midnight. Tomorrow it will open at 7 a.m. and close at midnight. On Friday, the day before the funeral, entry will be permitted from 7am to 7pm.