Pope Francis was laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, according to a statement from the Vatican.
The private ceremony lasted approximately thirty minutes. “The [burial] rite took place according to the prescriptions of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, presided over by the Cardinal Camerlengo, in the presence of those specified in the corresponding announcement from the Office for Liturgical Celebrations and the relatives of the late Pope, and concluded at 1:30 PM,” the Vatican announced.
Following the ceremony, a nine-day period of mourning commenced. During these days, cardinals from across the globe are expected to arrive at the Vatican to take part in the conclave, the secret meeting where a new Pope will be elected.
On April 26, tens of thousands of mourners, including global leaders, gathered in St. Peter’s Square to honor the late pontiff.
