Pope Francis specified that he wishes to be laid to rest at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, opting for simplicity in his final resting place to reflect his humble character.
Pope Francis' Final Wish: A Simple Resting Place in Rome
Pope Francis' Final Wish: A Simple Resting Place in Rome
In his will, Pope Francis expresses his desire to be buried in a modest tomb at a significant Marian shrine in Rome.
April 21, 2025, 4:17 PM ET - In a poignant testament to his life and beliefs, Pope Francis declared in his will that he wishes to be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. He emphasized his preference for a simple tomb, inscribed solely with “Franciscus.” This ancient site is not only significant in Catholicism but is also the resting place of six former popes.
In his will, dated June 29, 2022, Francis articulated his heartfelt desire for his final earthly journey to conclude at what he described as “this very ancient Marian shrine.” The Vatican released these details on Monday, highlighting the personal connection he had with the basilica throughout his twelve-year papacy. Each of his apostolic trips commenced and concluded there, marking it as a vital part of his spiritual journey. Notably, on his first day as pope in 2013, he made a special visit to the basilica to pray—an act emblematic of his humble approach to the papacy.
Moreover, his visits to St. Mary Major were especially poignant following his health challenges. Just days before his passing, after a prolonged 38-day hospitalization, he made a point to visit the basilica, even if only from his car.
In his instructions, he stipulated that the tomb should be “in the earth; simple, without particular decoration,” placing it adjacent to the Pauline Chapel, home to an iconic Marian image, the Salus Populi Romani. This particular icon holds deep significance for Francis, evoking his gratitude to the Virgin Mary for her “docile and maternal care.”
Notably, this icon is linked to the Jesuit order, of which Francis is a member. Since its inception, Jesuits have perpetuated devotion to this image, reflecting Francis’ longstanding reverence for its teachings. His wish to be buried near this Marian icon underscores the deeply personal faith that guided him throughout his lifetime.
In his will, dated June 29, 2022, Francis articulated his heartfelt desire for his final earthly journey to conclude at what he described as “this very ancient Marian shrine.” The Vatican released these details on Monday, highlighting the personal connection he had with the basilica throughout his twelve-year papacy. Each of his apostolic trips commenced and concluded there, marking it as a vital part of his spiritual journey. Notably, on his first day as pope in 2013, he made a special visit to the basilica to pray—an act emblematic of his humble approach to the papacy.
Moreover, his visits to St. Mary Major were especially poignant following his health challenges. Just days before his passing, after a prolonged 38-day hospitalization, he made a point to visit the basilica, even if only from his car.
In his instructions, he stipulated that the tomb should be “in the earth; simple, without particular decoration,” placing it adjacent to the Pauline Chapel, home to an iconic Marian image, the Salus Populi Romani. This particular icon holds deep significance for Francis, evoking his gratitude to the Virgin Mary for her “docile and maternal care.”
Notably, this icon is linked to the Jesuit order, of which Francis is a member. Since its inception, Jesuits have perpetuated devotion to this image, reflecting Francis’ longstanding reverence for its teachings. His wish to be buried near this Marian icon underscores the deeply personal faith that guided him throughout his lifetime.
