Rome braces for Pope Francis' funeral with top security
On Friday, the day before Pope Francis' funeral, his coffin will be displayed in St. Peter's Basilica. It is anticipated that 200,000 faithful and 130 delegations from across the globe will converge on Rome. The city is implementing extraordinary security measures in response.
What do you need to know?
- Pope Francis' coffin will be on display in St. Peter's Basilica from 6:00 to 18:00 GMT on Friday. It is expected that the number of visitors to the Vatican will increase significantly ahead of the funeral on Saturday.
- Rome is taking extraordinary security measures. The city is preparing for the arrival of 130 official delegations and 200,000 faithful. Additional police and military patrols are being deployed from across Italy.
- Cardinals are preparing for the conclave. A general congregation took place on Thursday, with 113 cardinals discussing the future of the Church.
On Friday, the day before Pope Francis' funeral, his coffin will be displayed in St. Peter's Basilica from 6:00 to 18:00 GMT. By Thursday evening, around 100,000 people had paid tribute to the pope, with thousands more arriving overnight.
At 19:00 GMT on Friday, the ceremony of closing the coffin will be conducted, presided over by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is overseeing the Church during the vacancy of the Holy See. Other high-ranking clergy will also participate in the ceremony.
On Saturday at 9:00 GMT, the Holy Father's funeral will take place.
For Francis' funeral, 130 official delegations and approximately 200,000 faithful are expected to attend. The President of the USA, Donald Trump, and his wife, Melania, are expected before midnight. According to American media reports, former American President Joe Biden may also attend.
Extraordinary security measures in Rome
In response to these events, Rome is introducing the highest level of security measures. The city will be patrolled by land, water, and air. Additional police and military units are arriving from other regions of Italy. An Italian destroyer is stationed in the port of Fiumicino, and Eurofighter jets are patrolling the skies. A drone defence system will also be operational.
Cardinals from around the world, who have gathered in Rome, are discussing the details of the Church's future. A general congregation took place on Thursday with 113 cardinals in attendance. According to unofficial reports, the conclave could begin on Monday, 5th May, in the afternoon.
