Pope Francis's Final Resting Place: The Heartfelt Connection to Santa Maria Maggiore

Pope Francis chose to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore, a church significant to him, highlighting the profound connection he had with the Virgin Mary and the local community.

Every return of Pope Francis to Rome was ritualistically punctuated by a visit to the Santa Maria Maggiore, a church echoing deep reverence in his heart. Built in the 4th Century and renowned as the first basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this sacred space is one of Rome’s four major basilicas and stands as a pillar of the city’s rich history.

As it prepares to become his final resting place, situated amidst the vibrant hustle of the Esquilino neighborhood and close to iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Santa Maria Maggiore is a poignant choice for the late pope, highlighting the intersection of the divine and the everyday life of Romans. Unlike the more venerated St. Peter's Basilica, where popes typically find their eternal homes, Santa Maria Maggiore represents the essence of "real" Rome.

The basilica is adorned with breathtaking chapels, glimmering mosaics, and gilded woodworks. It is also the final resting place of seven other popes and houses artifacts steeped in Christian lore, including a relic of Jesus's crib and an icon of Mary, the focal point of Pope Francis's prayers before embarking on his journeys.

Father Rolandas Makrickas, the senior priest of Santa Maria Maggiore, recounted how the pope's decision to be laid to rest there unfolded. Initially taken aback by the suggestion in May 2022, Francis later expressed his intent, attributing it to the Virgin Mary's guidance. The space selected for him now stands guarded and marked by plywood, waiting for its newest occupant beside the cherished icon of Mary.

Visitors from around the globe have flocked to the basilica as news of the pope's death spread. The atmosphere was reverent, as people lined up for confessions and many simply celebrated the church's beauty. One visitor from Manchester, clearly moved by the experience, expressed her admiration, saying it was a long-desired pilgrimage to a place so beloved by Pope Francis.

On Saturday afternoon, Pope Francis will embark on his last journey from the Vatican to Santa Maria Maggiore, mirroring his devoted visits throughout his life. Although the church will briefly close, the faithful will soon be able to gather once again to pay homage to the embodiment of grace that Pope Francis represented, lying now under the gaze of the Virgin Mary.