The Vatican has shared the first official images of the tomb of Pope Francis, who was laid to rest on Saturday inside Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major. The photos were released early Sunday as the tomb was opened to the public for the first time.

Thousands Gather to Pay Their Respects

Crowds poured into the basilica on Sunday to honor the late pontiff. According to Italy’s ANSA news agency, more than 13,000 people visited the tomb throughout the day, with thousands more still waiting outside in long lines.

Later in the afternoon, all cardinals present in Rome were expected to visit the tomb in a formal gesture of respect, the Vatican announced.

A Path Through the Holy Door to the Madonna

The cardinals were scheduled to enter through the Holy Door, a significant symbol in Catholic tradition, before visiting Pope Francis’ tomb. Afterward, they would move to the nearby chapel housing the Salus Populi Romani — a revered Byzantine-style icon of the Virgin Mary.

Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis often prayed before this image before and after each of his international journeys, a ritual that underscored his devotion to the Madonna.

A Historic Burial

Pope Francis passed away last Monday at the age of 88. His burial at St. Mary Major marks a historic departure from tradition, as he became the first pope in more than a century to be interred outside the Vatican. Additionally, he is the first pontiff in over 300 years to be laid to rest within the walls of the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

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