Pope Francis, who died at age 88 following a stroke and heart failure, directed in his will that he be buried in a simple tomb at the Papal Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome. He requested that his grave be “in the ground, without particular decoration” and bear only the inscription “Franciscus.” The burial expenses are to be covered by a benefactor previously designated by the late pontiff.
In his final testament, Pope Francis stated that he had entrusted his life and ministry to Mary and wished to be laid to rest in the basilica where he regularly prayed at the beginning and end of his apostolic journeys. He chose a niche between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel for his tomb, rather than the traditional burial place at St. Peter’s Basilica.
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