7 Interesting Facts About Pope Francis' Funeral

By Timothy Yap Apr 26, 2025 06:31 PM EDT

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a cerebral stroke and subsequent cardiac complications. His death occurred just hours after delivering an Easter blessing from the Vatican. In accordance with his wishes for simplicity, Pope Francis's funeral was held on April 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM local time in St. Peter's Square, Rome.

Here are some interesting facts about Pope Francis' funeral:

1. First Pope Buried Outside the Vatican in Over 120 Years

Pope Francis chose to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore instead of inside St. Peter's Basilica.
This was a major break from tradition - the last pope buried outside the Vatican was Pope Leo XIII in 1903!

2. No Triple Coffin

Traditionally, popes are buried in three coffins (wood, lead, and wood again), symbolizing mortality, preservation, and respect.
Francis opted for a simple, single wooden casket, lined with zinc - reflecting his lifelong humility.

3. He Rewrote His Own Funeral Plans

In 2024, Pope Francis personally updated the Vatican's funeral protocols to simplify the ceremonies.
His instructions emphasized prayer, simplicity, and charity over pomp and tradition.

4. A Massive Global Audience

Over 250,000 people attended the funeral in St. Peter's Square.
Millions more watched globally - especially across Latin America, where he was beloved as the first Latin American pope.

5. Unexpected Attendees

Political leaders from all sides of global tensions attended: Donald Trump, Joe Biden, Emmanuel Macron, Volodymyr Zelensky, and even the Prince of Wales.
It became a rare moment of global unity and respect.

6. Very Few Family Members

Only his nephew, Mauro Bergoglio, attended.
His sister, Maria Elena, was too ill to travel, and some relatives had distanced themselves from Church matters, respecting his wishes for a modest, private family presence.