In a touching final testament dated June 29, 2022 and released following his passing on April 21, 2025, Pope Francis outlined his burial wishes with clarity and humility, asking for a simple resting place within the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.
“As I sense that the twilight of my earthly life is approaching… I wish to express my final wishes regarding my burial place,” the Pope wrote. He reaffirmed his lifelong devotion to the Virgin Mary, stating, “I have always entrusted my life and priestly and episcopal ministry to the Mother of Our Lord, Mary Most Holy.”
The pontiff requested that his remains be placed “in the ground; simple, without particular ornamentation, and bearing only the inscription: Franciscus.” He specified the exact location to be a niche between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel within the basilica.
He shared that a benefactor had covered the expenses for the preparation of his burial, with instructions already handed over to officials. The statement also carried a final reflection filled with peace and spiritual surrender: “The suffering that marked the final part of my life, I offer to the Lord, for peace in the world and brotherhood among peoples.”
