Pope Francis' passing has brought renewed attention to the prophecies of 16th-century French astrologer Nostradamus. This is coincidentally because they align with the contents of his prophetic works.

According to foreign media such as the Daily Mail on the 23rd, Nostradamus’ prophetic book published in 1555 contains the statement that 'the authority of the pope will weaken after the death of the aged pope.' This is one of Nostradamus' prophecies for 2025.

On the 23rd, a mourner prays at the Francis Pope’s funeral home set up at the Dapdong Cathedral in Jung-gu, Incheon. /Courtesy of Yonhap News Agency

Nostradamus also wrote in his prophetic book that 'a good-aged Roman will be elected due to the death of the old pope,' adding, 'although people will say he weakens his position, he will be active in that position for a long time.'

Nostradamus hinted at specifics regarding the pope's successor, stating that 'a young person with a dark complexion, aided by a great king, will hand a wallet to another person with a reddish complexion.' The term 'black pope' could refer to a leader dressed in the black robes worn by Jesuit priests, of which Pope Francis is a member, or symbolize significant changes in the Catholic Church.

Nostradamus also mentioned the possibility of the fall of the 'city of seven hills.' The city of seven hills is considered a symbol of Vatican City, with claims suggesting a prophecy of impending chaos in the Vatican.

Among Nostradamus' prophecies for 2025, it is reported that 'the great plagues of the past will break out again, and there has never been anything deadlier under the heavens,' and that 'the influence of existing Western powers will decline, and new powers will emerge.'

Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on the 21st. The Vatican plans to hold a funeral on the 26th and subsequently conduct a conclave to determine his successor.