Thousands Mourn Pope Francis During Final Public Viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica

VATICAN CITY — More than 250,000 people paid their last respects to Pope Francis over a three-day public viewing that concluded on Friday evening, April 25, 2025, in St. Peter’s Basilica. The pope, who died at 88 after suffering a stroke, lay in state as mourners from around the globe flocked to bid farewell.

Lines stretched around St. Peter’s Square as people waited for hours to see Francis’s open coffin displayed at the central altar. Since his body arrived at St. Peter’s on Wednesday in a solemn procession, visitors stood in tribute, reflecting on his impactful 12-year papacy.

<p“He’s the only pope we’ve had who came from South America, a pope who had many good intentions for the Catholic Church,” said visitor Patricio Castriota from Argentina. He added, “This farewell was very sad, but I thank God that I was able to see him.”

During his time as pope, Francis was known for his simple lifestyle and was regarded as a champion of the marginalized. Cardinal François-Xavier Bustillo stated, “He humanized the church, without desacralizing it.” Many mourners shared similar sentiments, highlighting Francis’s efforts to clean up the church’s image.

Despite a high turnout, police were forced to turn away hundreds of people when St. Peter’s Square was closed hours before the viewing period ended. According to Vatican officials, about 250,000 visitors paid their respects before public viewings ended at 7 p.m. (17:00 GMT) on Friday.

<pAs the casket was sealed ahead of the funeral, Bishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli confirmed that twelve coins would be placed inside, representing each year of Francis’s papacy, along with a document detailing his legacy.

The funeral set for Saturday is anticipated to draw over 130 delegations, including U.S. President Donald Trump and numerous heads of state. Authorities conducted extensive security measures, deploying thousands of police and military personnel across the city.