Apr 21, 2025
Why Did Pope Francis Choose St. Mary Major Basilica as His Final Resting Place?
Pope Francis dies at 88 in Vatican Pope Francis died on April 21 in the Vatican after a long illness, ending his 12-year papacy as the first Latin American pope
He wants to be buried at St. Mary Major Pope Francis expressed his wish to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major instead of the traditional St. Peter’s
Why he chose St. Mary Major He shared a deep personal devotion to the Virgin Mary and said the place for his burial at the basilica was already prepared
Personal and cultural significance He frequently visited the basilica to pray before the icon of Mary, especially before and after international trips
Spiritual importance of the basilica St. Mary Major is the oldest Marian church in the West and houses sacred relics like a piece of the manger from Bethlehem
A rare choice for a pope Most popes are buried in the Vatican grottoes. The last pope buried at St. Mary Major was Clement IX in 1669
Why burial here is unlikely Despite his planning, the strong tradition of burial at St. Peter’s Basilica may prevent the fulfillment of his burial wish
Life and legacy of Pope Francis He reformed the Church, promoted compassion, led 47 international trips, and modernized papal traditions during his time as pope
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