In Pictures: Pope Francis Lies in State at St. Peter’s Basilica

Crowds gather to pay respects to Pope Francis

The body of Pope Francis was brought from his Santa Marta residence to St Peter’s Basilica in a simple wooden coffin, as per his wishes. Led by a procession of cardinals, the late pontiff will lie in state for public viewing ahead of his funeral on Saturday. Thousands are expected to pay their respects.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state stands near the body of Pope Francis, placed in an open casket during the rite of the declaration of death in Santa Marta residence at the Vatican, April 21, 2025. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS

A rosary is seen as the body of Pope Francis is placed in an open casket during the rite of the declaration of death in Santa Marta residence at the Vatican, April 21, 2025. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS

The body of Pope Francis is placed in an open casket during the rite of the declaration of death in Santa Marta residence at the Vatican, April 21, 2025. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS

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Diane Nahyonga