A large crowd descended on St. Peter's Basilica on Friday, April 25, 2025, to bid farewell to Pope Francis, whose body rested in a humble wooden coffin under the iconic dome designed by Michelangelo. The doors opened at 5:40 a.m., and by 8 a.m., the Vatican reported that approximately 128,000 mourners had already visited. As the hours passed, what started as a trickle turned into an overwhelming flood of attendees, all eager to say their final goodbyes before the pontiff's funeral set for Saturday.
A Global Farewell: Thousands Honor Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica
A Global Farewell: Thousands Honor Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica
In a heartfelt tribute, mourners from around the world gather to pay their last respects to Pope Francis, as preparations for his funeral intensify.
Beneath the vast arches of St. Peter's, individuals from various backgrounds took their turn to reflect and express their gratitude to Francis, often captured by the sentiment of those waiting. “He gave us so much,” said Daniela Sirigu, a Roman local who felt compelled to honor the beloved leader. The diverse mix of languages echoed throughout the basilica, highlighting the global impact of the late pontiff’s compassionate legacy.
In preparation for the funeral, security was escalated, and road access around Vatican City was restricted, with over 130 government delegations – including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs – anticipated to pay their respects. Meanwhile, volunteers clad in bright vests lined the surrounding streets, ready to assist visitors and ensure safety during the mourning period. As the atmosphere turned solemn, civic workers also reported an uptick in their duties, managing the logistics required by the incoming throng of visitors. Pope Francis, who devoted his life to fostering peace, compassion, and understanding, leaves behind a remarkable legacy that resonates globally, further uniting the faithful in their time of grief.
In preparation for the funeral, security was escalated, and road access around Vatican City was restricted, with over 130 government delegations – including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs – anticipated to pay their respects. Meanwhile, volunteers clad in bright vests lined the surrounding streets, ready to assist visitors and ensure safety during the mourning period. As the atmosphere turned solemn, civic workers also reported an uptick in their duties, managing the logistics required by the incoming throng of visitors. Pope Francis, who devoted his life to fostering peace, compassion, and understanding, leaves behind a remarkable legacy that resonates globally, further uniting the faithful in their time of grief.
