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April 26, 2025

Anna Murray 

The mortal remains of Pope Francis have been transferred from Casa Santa Marta to St. Peter’s Basilica. The church will remain open throughout the night to allow the faithful to pay their respects. The Pope’s coffin will lie in state until his funeral on April 26.

On April 23, red-robed cardinals and white-clad priests solemnly escorted the Pope’s coffin from his residence to the basilica, with Swiss Guards accompanying the procession to the church’s altar.

Public viewing began on April 23 at 11:00 a.m. local time. By mid-afternoon, tens of thousands had gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Over the past 24 hours, more than 50,000 people have lined up to honor Pope Francis. On April 24, over 61,000 individuals attended the public viewing as it entered its second day.