Pope Francis’s Body Placed in St. Peter’s Basilica for Public Viewing

Tens of thousands of people have gathered to pay their respects.

Video released by the Vatican on April 22 shows the open casket containing the body of Pope Francis, laid in the chapel of the Santa Marta residence. Source: Reuters

The body of Pope Francis was carried in solemn procession into St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23 to allow a public viewing period for the faithful to visit his body and bid farewell.

More than 20,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, paying their respects as the wooden coffin was carried into the basilica, with the College of Cardinals walking in procession with it.