Pope Francis, who passed away at 88, was buried in a quiet ceremony at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome. This church is one of the city's four major basilicas and was a favorite of the late pope. His tomb is marked by a simple stone, bearing his name and a single white rose. A crucifix above it is softly lit by a single spotlight, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

The choice of Santa Maria Maggiore is significant. This church, built in the 4th century, was the first to be dedicated to the Virgin Mary, to whom Pope Francis had a deep devotion. The basilica's location near the Colosseum and the bustling Termini station makes it a unique choice for a pope's final resting place, as popes are typically entombed within the Vatican.

Since the church opened to the public on Sunday, thousands have visited to pay their respects. Many found the simplicity of the tomb fitting for a pope known for his humility. Rosario Correale, an Italian visitor, described the experience as deeply emotional. Maria Brzezinska, a Polish pilgrim, felt the tomb's simplicity reflected Pope Francis' own humble nature.

The decision to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore was made by Pope Francis himself. He expressed his wish to be laid to rest there in 2022, inspired by his devotion to the Virgin Mary. This choice surprised many, including pilgrims like Amaya Morris, who found it humbling that the pope chose this particular church.

Pope Francis' funeral was a grand affair, attended by world leaders and hundreds of thousands of Catholics. The ceremony featured hymns and a homily by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who emphasized the pope's message of unity and bridge-building. Despite the grandeur, the pope's final resting place remains simple and unassuming, reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility and service.

Pope Francis' Final Resting Place: A Simple Tomb in a Historic Church

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