The Vatican announced on the 21st (local time) that Pope Francis left a will requesting to be buried in a simple grave at a church in Rome, rather than at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Most former popes were interred at St. Peter's Basilica after death.
According to the Vatican, the pope stated in his will written on June 29, 2022, "I feel that the sunset of my life on this earth is approaching, and I wish to leave only the place where I will be buried with a living hope for eternal life."
He also noted, "I request that my body rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore while waiting for the day of resurrection." This location is significant to Pope Francis, as it was chosen for his first external visit after his inauguration.
The pope specified the exact location of the grave within the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and even attached a diagram to the will. He also explained that the grave should have only a simple inscription with his Latin papal name (Franciscus) without any special embellishment.
In his will, the pope revealed that the expense for the funeral has already been arranged. He concluded the will by stating, "I pray that the Lord grants adequate rewards to all who have loved and prayed for me," adding, "I offer to the Lord the pain that occupied the final moments of my life, wishing for peace in the world and brotherhood among nations."
The spokesperson for the Vatican stated that the funeral will be held between the 25th and 27th. According to church customs, funerals are usually conducted in St. Peter's Square and interment occurs within 4 to 6 days after the day of passing. Decisions regarding the funeral are expected to be made at the first meeting of the College of Cardinals held after the pope's passing on the 22nd.