Francis died on Monday at the age of 88, one day after offering his final Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. In 2013, he became the first Latin American Pope, following Benedict XVI. Throughout his papacy, Francis became known for his humble and approachable leadership style.

Reflecting his life’s simplicity, Pope Francis was laid to rest in a simple wooden casket, rather than the traditional triple coffin of cypress, lead, and oak.

Over 100 foreign delegations attended the funeral. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and US President Donald Trump were among the many leaders present. They joined bishops, nuns, and European royalty as Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered the final commendation.

In a rare meeting, President Trump and President Zelensky met privately inside St. Peter’s Basilica, marking their first encounter since a tense exchange in February.

Outside, an estimated 250,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square and the nearby streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of the procession. After the service, the Pope’s coffin was placed in an armored ‘Popemobile,’ which slowly passed through the crowd. It crossed the River Tiber and passed the Colosseum, heading to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where Francis had requested to be buried.

For the first time since 1903, a Pope was buried outside the Vatican, breaking a long-standing tradition.

In his will, Pope Francis requested a simple burial, with the inscription “Franciscus” on his tomb.

Roman and Vatican authorities increased security during the funeral as crowds continued to pour in. The Swiss Guards, known for their centuries-old protection of the Pope, kept a watchful eye.

Catholics worldwide mourned the loss. With 1.4 billion members, the Church continues to grow in Africa and Asia, where many followed the ceremony on television or attended requiem Masses.