Pope Francis’s body has been moved from his residence at the Vatican to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Crowds gathered to witness the procession as it made its way through St. Peter’s Square, where it was met with applause.

Members of the Swiss Guard stand vigil next to the coffin of the late Pope, while a choir sings hymns at the basilica.

Cardinals and other members of the clergy were the first to pay their tributes to the late pontiff before the basilica was opened to the public at 10:00 BST (11:00 local time).

The Pope passed away on Monday morning, and his funeral is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 26th, 2025, with attendance expected from leaders around the world.

The atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square has become increasingly filled, with hundreds of people gathered to watch images from inside the basilica displayed on a giant screen outside.

By Newsroom 

23rd April 2025 

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