Crowds of mourners have descended upon St Peter’s Basilica to pay their final respects to Pope Francis, whose death earlier this week marked the end of a transformative era in the Catholic Church. The 88-year-old pontiff died on Monday after suffering a stroke and complications from pneumonia, following a period of declining health.

On Wednesday morning, the Pope’s open coffin was carried in a solemn procession from his Vatican residence at Casa Santa Marta to the basilica. Accompanied by the Swiss Guards and senior clergy, the procession crossed St Peter’s Square as bells rang out and the crowd, estimated at 20,000, applauded—a heartfelt Italian gesture of farewell.

Pope Francis’s body will remain on display until Friday evening, giving the public a chance to say goodbye. Many had gathered since dawn, some visibly emotional, drawn not only by his religious stature but by the deep personal resonance of his papacy.

Visitors from around the world shared stories of how the Pope’s leadership touched their lives. Known for his compassion and commitment to inclusion, Francis was praised for supporting marginalized communities and challenging the rigid hierarchies within the Church. Some mourners called him a “saint,” others a symbol of unity and hope.

Among the crowd were newlyweds who had hoped to receive his traditional blessing for couples, as well as longtime admirers who traveled long distances to be present. One woman described him as a true champion for immigrants, saying she would be praying by his coffin and asking for strength in her own humanitarian work.

Pope Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, offering a brief message from a wheelchair and greeting the faithful during a drive through the square.

His funeral will be held on Saturday and is expected to be attended by leaders and dignitaries from across the globe, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Prince William. Staying true to his modest lifestyle, the Pope had requested a simple ceremony, funded entirely by a benefactor.

In a departure from tradition, he will not be buried beneath St Peter’s Basilica. Instead, he chose a resting place in a modest church in central Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary, where a plain tombstone bearing only his name will mark the grave.

With his passing, the Vatican has entered the Sede Vacante—the period between popes—during which his official residence has been sealed, and preparations begin for the election of his successor.

As tributes pour in, many hope the next pontiff will carry forward Pope Francis’s legacy of humility, reform, and compassion.