On April 21, 2025, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis—Jorge Mario Bergoglio—one of the most influential and compassionate Popes in modern history. Known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and deep devotion to Mary, his death was felt by millions. But even in death, Pope Francis left a meaningful mark: he chose to be buried not in St. Peter’s Basilica, but in a place that held special significance in his heart—the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
📍 Pope Francis’ Final Resting Place: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Located near Termini Station in Rome, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major Papal Basilicas and a must-see for anyone visiting the Eternal City. It is also now the final resting place of Pope Francis, making it a site of even greater importance for visitors in 2025 and beyond.
Why this basilica? Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis made frequent, quiet visits to pray before the icon of the “Salus Populi Romani”, a revered image of the Virgin Mary. He did so after every apostolic journey and before major decisions—always in humility and silence. In his will, he requested to be buried here, close to the people and close to the Madonna he so dearly loved.
🏛️ What Makes Santa Maria Maggiore Special?
This magnificent basilica is the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary and one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, dating back to the 5th century. Here are some highlights:
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The Salus Populi Romani Icon: The Marian image that Pope Francis visited often.
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Breathtaking Mosaics: Some of the most ancient and beautiful mosaics in Christian history.
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The Holy Crib Relic: A fragment of what is believed to be the original manger of Jesus.
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Bernini’s Tomb: The famous Baroque architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini is also buried here.
The basilica offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, away from the larger crowds of the Vatican, and now holds a deeper meaning as the Pope’s resting place.
🗺️ Visit Pope Francis’ Tomb and More with What’s In Italy
To help travelers experience the spiritual and historical richness of Rome, What’s in Italy offers curated tours that include Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Peter’s Basilica, and other sacred destinations.
✅ The Basilica of Jubilee Tour
Visit Santa Maria Maggiore, the Lateran Basilica, and other important churches, uncovering the religious history of Rome and the meaning of the Jubilee 2025. Now includes a stop at Pope Francis’ tomb.
👉 Discover the Tour – From €30
✅ St. Peter’s Basilica Tour
Explore the grandeur of the Vatican’s central basilica. Includes visits to the tombs of past Popes like St. Peter and John Paul II, and insights into the heart of the Catholic Church.
✅ Private Vatican & Church Tours
Tailor your experience with a private guide. Include both Santa Maria Maggiore and St. Peter’s, plus Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums, or even off-the-beaten-path basilicas.
🙏 A Time to Travel With Meaning
The passing of Pope Francis invites pilgrims and travelers alike to reconnect with faith, art, and history in a new way. Visiting the sacred places he loved and now rests in creates a rare opportunity for spiritual reflection and meaningful travel.
Let What’s in Italy be your guide as you walk through the Eternal City—following in the footsteps of saints, Popes, and centuries of devotion.
📬 Stay Inspired
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We do not remember days, we remember moments.
Non si ricordano i giorni, si ricordano gli attimi. – Cesare Pavese