Pope Francis' Unique Funeral Procession Planned in Rome

The Vatican is preparing for the burial of Pope Francis, who passed away recently. Cardinal Charles Maung Bo expressed that discussions among cardinals regarding the upcoming conclave, which will elect a new pope, are proceeding smoothly. Cardinal Bo is among the potential candidates for the papacy.

Before the conclave can commence, Pope Francis' funeral will take place. Traditionally, the conclave begins no sooner than 15 days following a pope's death.

As the day of the funeral approaches, the atmosphere in Vatican City is charged with both solemnity and anticipation. Crowds have gathered, leading to roadblocks and long lines as people prepare to pay their last respects. Cardinal Bo was spotted walking through the streets of the Vatican, seemingly at ease amidst the bustling crowds.

In a departure from recent papal traditions, Pope Francis opted for a burial site at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church he frequented, rather than the usual location within St. Peter's Basilica. This decision has led to plans for a unique procession through the streets of Rome following the funeral ceremony. The procession route will include significant landmarks such as Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum, before arriving at the church where he will be laid to rest.

Since the pope's body was placed on view at St. Peter's Basilica, approximately 250,000 visitors have paid their respects, according to official figures from the Holy See. Many pilgrims had prearranged their trips to Rome, coinciding with this year's jubilee, a significant event that occurs every 25 years, drawing many to the city.

On the day of the funeral, scheduled to begin at 10 AM at St. Peter's Square, around 50 heads of state are expected to attend. Among them will be the Swedish royal family, along with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and his wife, Birgitta Ed, as well as Per Holmström, Sweden's ambassador to the Holy See.

High-profile figures such as former U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden will also be present, although Biden will not be part of the official delegation. French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, visited St. Peter's Basilica the day before, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to attend, although Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be in attendance.