Pope Francis’ Tomb a Testament to his Ligurian Roots
In a poignant tribute to his heritage, Pope Francis’ tomb in the Basilica of St. Mary Major has been crafted from materials sourced from the Italian region of Liguria. The simple yet elegant tomb bears the inscription "Franciscus" and a reproduction of the late Pope’s pectoral cross. According to a report by Vatican News, the tomb is located near the Altar of St Francis, in the niche of the side nave between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel.
The use of Ligurian stone for the tomb is a deliberate choice, made at the request of Pope Francis himself. As Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, co-Archpriest of the Basilica, revealed in a television interview, the Pope had expressed his desire to be buried in a tomb made from the "stone of Liguria, the land of his grandparents." This personal touch underscores the significance of the region to the Pope’s family history.
The connection between Liguria and Pope Francis dates back to the 19th century, when his great-grandfather, Vincenzo Sivori, emigrated from the small town of Cogorno to Argentina. It was there that he raised his family, including his granddaughter Regina Maria Sivori, who would later become the Pope’s mother. In Cogorno, a plaque of slate commemorates Vincenzo Sivori’s journey, serving as a lasting testament to the Pope’s roots.
The Mayor of Cogorno, Enrica Sommariva, expressed her surprise and delight upon learning of Pope Francis’ request for Ligurian stone for his tomb. "It’s a great gift, one last surprise," said Cristina Sivori, the Pope’s cousin, echoing the sentiments of her family. The Sivori family has a long history in Cogorno, and their connection to the Pope has brought a sense of pride and joy to the community.
In 2017, Pope Francis met with his family in Genova, including Cristina and her mother, Angela Sivori. The meeting was a poignant reunion, with the Pope welcoming his cousins warmly and exclaiming, "At last, I meet the Sivoris!" This encounter highlights the importance of family ties to the Pope, even in his later years.
The choice of slate for the tomb is also significant, as it is often referred to as "the people’s stone" due to its widespread use in the region. According to Franca Garbaino, President of the Slate District, slate is a humble yet warm material that has been used in the local quarries for centuries. The District has already agreed to provide slabs of slate to accompany Pope Francis in his eternal rest, ensuring that the stone will remain a part of his legacy.
The ties between Cogorno and the Papacy date back to the 13th century, with Popes Innocent IV and Adrian V having connections to the town. As Vatican News reports, the town’s history with the Papacy has come full circle with Pope Francis’ request for Ligurian stone, a testament to his enduring connection to his heritage. The story of Pope Francis’ tomb serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family, heritage, and tradition in the life of the late Pope.
As reported by Vatican News, the Basilica of St. Mary Major will forever hold a piece of Liguria, thanks to Pope Francis’ thoughtful request. The tomb, crafted from the region’s distinctive slate, stands as a lasting tribute to the Pope’s roots and his enduring legacy.
The significance of Pope Francis’ Ligurian heritage cannot be overstated. His connection to the region and its people is a testament to the enduring power of family ties and cultural heritage. As the Pope’s tomb demonstrates, even in death, he remains deeply connected to his roots, a fact that will continue to inspire and uplift the people of Liguria and beyond.
Sources:
Vatican News: www.vaticannews.va
This article has been written based on information provided by Vatican News, a reputable news source covering events from the Vatican. All quotes and information have been sourced directly from Vatican News, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the report.
