In a surprising move, Pope Francis has revealed his final resting place will be the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, breaking a tradition of over a century and opting for a location outside St. Peter’s Basilica.
The 86-year-old pontiff made the announcement in an interview with Mexican broadcaster Televisa’s N+ streaming service, stating, “The place is already prepared. I want to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore.”
This decision marks a significant departure from the usual papal burial practice. Since 1903, all popes have been interred within the Vatican walls, specifically within St. Peter’s Basilica. The last pope to deviate from this tradition was Leo XIII, whose remains lie in the Basilica of St. John the Lateran.
For Pope Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore holds a special significance. He has long expressed a profound connection to the basilica, visiting it regularly before and after his election in 2013. He has also used it as a place of prayer for both personal and global matters, including seeking solace after surgery and offering prayers for his upcoming trips.
Liberia Halts Unprocessed Rubber Exports: President Weah Seeks to Revitalize Industry
While the exact reason behind his choice remains unrevealed, the pope’s increasing health concerns in recent years may have influenced his decision. He was forced to cancel his trip to the COP28 climate talks due to bronchitis, raising questions about his future stamina for the demanding role.
Interestingly, the interview also revealed the pope’s thoughts on papal resignations. He paid tribute to his predecessor, Benedict XVI, for stepping down in 2013 due to declining health, citing his “courage” in making such a decision. Francis, however, reiterated his stance that stepping down should not become a “normal thing” for popes.
As news of Pope Francis’s chosen burial site spreads, many are wondering what this signifies for the future of papal tradition. Will this pave the way for more popes to consider burial locations outside the Vatican? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Pope Francis continues to break ground, both in his actions and his final wishes.