Pope Francis has requested a humble burial in a plain grave at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, according to his will released by the Vatican on Monday.
In the document, dated June 29, 2022, the 88-year-old pontiff expressed a desire for simplicity in death, mirroring the values he has championed throughout his papacy. He asked that his tomb be unadorned, bearing only the inscription “Franciscus.”
“Feeling that the sunset of my earthly life is approaching and with lively hope in Eternal Life, I wish to express my testamentary will only as regards the place of my burial,” the Pope wrote.
Pope Francis chose Santa Maria Maggiore a basilica he frequented before and after many of his international trips for his final resting place. His will included a hand-drawn diagram marking the exact location within the side nave of the church. He also noted that the burial expenses had already been taken care of.
“The tomb must be in the earth; simple, without particular decoration,” he specified.
In a closing reflection, the Pope said he had offered the suffering of his later years to God, praying for global peace and unity.
“I offered the suffering that became present in the last part of my life to the Lord for world peace and brotherhood among peoples.”
He concluded by asking God’s blessing on those who loved him and would continue to pray for him.
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