Pope Francis’s funeral: A historic farewell in the heart of Rome
The passing of Pope Francis has left a profound void in the hearts of millions around the globe. On a solemn Saturday, the streets of Rome transformed into a sea of mourners, as the beloved pontiff’s casket made its way through the city, following an open-air funeral ceremony at St. Peter’s Square. This momentous occasion was graced by the presence of numerous world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron, all gathered to pay their respects.
A gathering of global leaders
In a display of unity and reverence, dignitaries from various nations came together to honor the legacy of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with health issues. His final days were marked by visits from notable figures, including US Vice President JD Vance and King Charles III, although neither attended the funeral. Instead, the Prince of Wales represented the British monarchy, highlighting the significance of the event.
Seated prominently in the front row was Donald Trump, positioned just a few seats away from Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. The presence of international leaders underscored the global impact of Pope Francis’s teachings and his commitment to peace and compassion. Among the attendees were Argentinian President Javier Milei, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Italian President Sergio Mattarella, all of whom reflected the diverse tapestry of global leadership.
Emotional tributes and heartfelt farewells
As the funeral mass unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with emotion. Over 250,000 mourners gathered to witness the poignant ceremony, with spontaneous applause erupting during Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re’s homily, a testament to the profound influence Pope Francis had on the faithful and beyond. The heartfelt tributes resonated deeply, as attendees reflected on the pontiff’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes and interfaith dialogue.
Following the ceremony, the casket was placed in the popemobile for a final journey through the streets of Rome, allowing the public to pay their last respects. The procession was a moving sight, with mourners lining the streets, their faces a mix of sorrow and gratitude for the life of a leader who championed love and understanding.
A lasting legacy in the Basilica of St. Mary Major
Pope Francis was laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, inside a tomb crafted from slate stone sourced from Liguria, his grandparents’ birthplace. The simplicity of the tomb, inscribed with “Franciscus” and adorned with an image of his pectoral cross, reflects the humility that characterized his papacy. This final resting place serves as a poignant reminder of his commitment to serve the Church and the world.
As the world reflects on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, the images captured by award-winning photographer Alex Majoli during this historic day offer a glimpse into the profound impact he had on countless lives. His work, part of the “Open City 2025. Rome in the Jubilee Year” project, will be exhibited at the Vi-VE Museum in Rome, ensuring that the memory of Pope Francis continues to inspire future generations.