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Pope Francis’s Final Resting Place: Santa Maria Maggiore
With the passing of Pope Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore will soon become his final resting place, marking a significant chapter in both his life and the history of this esteemed basilica. Each time Francis returned to Rome from travels, he made a point to visit this particular church, underscoring his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. Established in the 4th century, Santa Maria Maggiore holds the distinction of being the first church dedicated to her and ranks among the city’s four major basilicas.
Nestled within a vibrant neighborhood close to famed landmarks such as the Colosseum and the bustling Termini station, Santa Maria Maggiore embodies a lived-in Rome, with its surrounding square consisting of cafes and shops. This stands in contrast to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, the typical burial site for popes, where the atmosphere is characterized by solemnity and historical weight. Despite its connection to the Vatican, Santa Maria Maggiore impresses with its intricate chapels, stunning mosaics, and rich heritage, serving as the final resting place for seven other popes.
The basilica is also home to significant relics, including what is believed to be a piece of Jesus’s crib, as well as an icon of Mary, which Pope Francis cherished during his travels. He regularly offered prayers to her for protection during his journeys.
Recently, Father Rolandas Makrickas, the senior priest of Santa Maria Maggiore, shared insights on how Pope Francis selected this church as his burial site. During a conversation in May 2022, Makrickas proposed the idea of Francis being entombed at the basilica. Initially, the Pope responded that popes are typically interred at St. Peter’s. However, shortly after, he called Makrickas back with a revelation he attributed to divine inspiration, affirming his desire to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore. The location chosen is near the beloved icon of Mary, which now has been cordoned off in preparation for the Pope’s resting place.
A security guard at the basilica recounted memories of Francis visiting frequently, often interacting with staff and worshippers alike. The guard shared how the Pope would engage with him while offering gentle admonitions to visitors about maintaining decorum within the sacred space.
The atmosphere at Santa Maria Maggiore has drawn thousands of people wishing to pay their final respects to the Pope. Visitors have been arriving steadily, seeking a glimpse of the place that held so much significance for the late pontiff. Outside the church, a woman from Manchester expressed her intent to visit precisely because this was Francis’s favored location before his own travels. Her admiration of the basilica’s size and beauty illustrated the emotional connection many have felt toward this space.
As the world prepares to say goodbye to Pope Francis, his journey will culminate at Santa Maria Maggiore, where visitors can once again pay homage to both his legacy and the enduring history of the church. After a short closure for the service, the basilica will once more welcome those who seek solace in its beauty and sanctity. There, beside the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, the Pope will find his peace, continuing his bond with a space that embraced him throughout his ministry.
Source
www.bbc.com