Pope Francis to be Buried at Santa Maria Maggiore: A Humble Farewell
Pope Francis, who died on Monday aged 88, will be laid to rest in the historic basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, a site that held great significance for him throughout his life and papacy. According to The Guardian, the Pope had chosen the basilica as his final resting place, opting for a simple burial in a niche that was previously used to store candlestick holders.
As a priest, and then cardinal, Jorge Mario Bergoglio would often visit Santa Maria Maggiore during his trips to Rome. The basilica, which is one of the four papal basilicas in the city, has a long history dating back to the fourth century and is perched on one of Rome’s seven ancient hills in the Esquilino neighbourhood. This area, once neglected, has in recent years become a populous and multicultural hub, attracting many artists and film directors.
The Pope’s connection to Santa Maria Maggiore was evident even after his election in 2013. On the morning after becoming Pope Francis, he snuck out of the Vatican to pray at the basilica, a gesture that reflected his humility and devotion to the site. According to The Guardian, Francis frequented the basilica over 100 times during his 12-year papacy, often stopping by to pray before and after trips overseas.
The basilica itself is a stunning example of Roman architecture, boasting a coffered ceiling gilded with gold brought back from the Americas by Christopher Columbus. Visitors can also admire a chapel designed by Michelangelo, as well as a venerated Byzantine icon of Mary that Francis often prayed before. The site is also home to the tomb of the 17th-century Italian sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Francis’s decision to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, rather than in the grottoes beneath St Peter’s Basilica, was seen as a reflection of his desire for a simple and humble farewell. As reported by The Guardian, the Pope had discussed his plans with Javier MartÃnez-Brocal, the Vatican correspondent for the Spanish newspaper ABC, stating that he wanted to be buried in a way that was "more like a pastor."
The niche in which Francis will be interred is located in the left nave of the basilica, close to the Paolina chapel. As requested in his final testament, the tomb will not be decorated and will be inscribed only with his papal name in Latin: Franciscus. MartÃnez-Brocal recalled that when Francis saw the niche, he replied: "This is my place, I want to be buried here."
The Pope’s connection to Santa Maria Maggiore was also influenced by a memorable encounter with a suspected pickpocket. According to MartÃnez-Brocal, Francis recalled the incident, saying: "He was walking towards the basilica and someone went up to him and said: ‘I don’t have petrol, can you give me some money?’" The Pope sensed that the man was trying to trick him and avoided handing over his wallet.
As pilgrims and tourists continue to flock to Santa Maria Maggiore to pay their respects to Francis, the basilica’s significance as a site of worship and pilgrimage is clear. As Erika, a German doctor living in Norway, said: "He radiated peace through every pore of his being." Meanwhile, Stephanie Polco, a pilgrim from Mexico, noted: "I can understand why Francis chose to be buried here. It is breathtakingly beautiful."
The Guardian has confirmed that Francis’s funeral mass will take place in St Peter’s Square, with his burial at Santa Maria Maggiore marking the final chapter in his remarkable life and legacy.
Related Articles:
- "A signal of simplicity: Pope Francis’s funeral will be his final humble gesture" – The Guardian
Sources:
- The Guardian: "Santa Maria Maggiore: why Pope Francis buried" – https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/25/santa-maria-maggiore-why-pope-francis-buried
