Pope Francis is buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore) in Rome. Specifically, his tomb is located in a burial niche in the side nave between the Sforza Chapel and the Pauline Chapel, which houses the icon of Mary Salus Populi Romani, to which he had a great devotion
. This burial site is notable because Pope Francis is the first pope in over a century to be buried outside Vatican City, breaking the tradition of being interred beneath St. Peter's Basilica. He requested a simple tomb in this basilica, which is one of the four major basilicas in Rome and holds special significance for him
. His funeral was held at St. Peter's Square, and afterward, his body was transported across Rome to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major for burial
. The basilica is located on the Esquiline Hill, one of the seven hills of ancient Rome, and is renowned for its light-filled interior and historical significance
. In summary, Pope Francis is buried at:
- Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore), Rome
- In the burial niche between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel
- First pope buried outside the Vatican in over 100 years, fulfilling his wish for a simple resting place
