The Basilica of St. Mary Major, the final resting place of Pope Francis, is one of the most important churches in Rome and one of the four major papal basilicas.
Mourners flock to the Basilica in downtown Rome
Located on the Esquiline Hill, which is in downtown Rome, St. Mary Major’s Basilica is close to the central Termini Railway Station and is the largest Catholic church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Pope Francis was buried here last Saturday, making him the first pope in over a century not to be buried at St. Peter's Basilica. St Mary Major’s is open daily from 7am to 6.45pm with the last admission at 6pm, but as the crowd flow since Sunday has swelled dramatically, it is recommended to plan any visit accordingly, as waiting times are very much longer than usual.
The funeral was held in St. Peter’s Square
His body was removed to the Basilica after his funeral which took place in St. Peter's Square and was attended by some 250,000 mourners, including global dignitaries such as U.S. President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Prince William. His tomb in St. Mary Major is marked by a simple Latin inscription, "Franciscus," accompanied by a crucifix in keeping with his request for humility and simplicity in death, which reflect his beliefs in life. 
Stunning mosaics and a piece of the Holy Crib
The Basilica is celebrated for its stunning mosaics, many of which are original from the 5th century, making them some of the oldest Christian art in existence. St. Mary Major also houses important relics, including a piece of the Holy Crib believed to be from the manger where Christ was born. Beneath the main altar lies the tomb of St. Jerome, the great translator of the Bible into Latin.
Pope Francis visited the Basilica before and after every journey
Since the beginning of his pontificate in 2013, Pope Francis made it a personal tradition to visit the Basilica before and after his apostolic journeys, praying before the famous Salus Populi Romani icon of the Virgin Mary, protectress of Romans. The ancient and revered Basilica has always been a symbol of Marian devotion and an essential site for Catholic pilgrims who come here from all over the world.
