22.04.2025 10:30
The Vatican has released photos of Pope Francis in an open casket, who passed away at the age of 88. The funeral ceremony and the process of electing a new pope have begun. The body of the pope, who died as a result of a stroke, will be open for public viewing tomorrow. After the funeral, a nine-day official mourning period will commence, followed by preparations for the Conclave that will elect the new pope.
```html
The Vatican released photos of Pope Francis in an open casket, who passed away at the age of 88. These images, taken during the "Confirmation of the Pope's Death" ceremony held last night at the Santa Marta Chapel, show the official preparation process for the Pope's remains.
The Vatican spokesperson stated, "The ceremony, presided over by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, lasted less than an hour and followed the traditional rituals of the Catholic Church."
Following the death of Pope Francis, who died from a stroke, the cardinals gathered this morning at the Vatican to begin planning the funeral and the process of electing a new Pope. The funeral is expected to take place between Friday and Sunday, according to the rules approved by Francis last year.
Vatican sources reported that the Pope's remains may be open to the public for visitation starting tomorrow morning. According to Francis's last will, he will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, which is outside the Vatican and features his favorite icon of the Virgin Mary.
After the funeral, a nine-day official mourning period will begin, followed by preparations for the Conclave that will elect the new Pope. According to tradition, the new conclave should begin 15-20 days after the Pope's death.
Just a few days before his death, the Pope made his last public appearance in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, greeting his followers with a final wave from the Papamobile.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he would attend the funeral with his wife Melania Trump, and Argentine President Javier Milei is also expected to be present at the ceremony.
```