The Vatican has released its first photos of Pope Francis’ tomb.

Pope Francis was buried on Saturday in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

The Vatican’s release of the tomb came hours before the tomb was opened for public viewing.

Take a look:

First images of Pope Francis’ tomb at Saint Mary Major: the slab marked ‘FRANCISCVS’ is lit by a spotlight, and above it hangs a crucifix — an enlarged replica of the late Pope’s pectoral cross. pic.twitter.com/CI1tfjS2RM

— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 27, 2025

The tomb of Pope Francis

: Vatican Media pic.twitter.com/iEkNt3SWr5

— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) April 27, 2025

Here’s what ABC News reported:

The Vatican released photos of the tomb of Pope Francis, who was buried on Saturday in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

The release came Sunday morning, as the tomb opened for public viewing. More than 13,000 people filed into the basilica to view the tomb on Sunday, with several thousand more waiting outside, the Italian news agency ANSA reported, citing the police.

All the cardinals in Rome are expected to visit the tomb to pay their respects on Sunday afternoon, according to the Vatican.

The cardinals are expected to pass through the Holy Door, visit the tomb, then proceed to the chapel where the Salus Populi Romani, an image of the Virgin Mary, is displayed.

Francis reportedly would pray before that Byzantine-style icon of the Madonna before and after each of his foreign trips during his 12 years as pope.

Pope Francis’ tomb in the Basilica of St. Mary Major has been made with materials from the Italian region of Liguria. It is a simple tomb bearing only the inscription “Franciscus” and a reproduction of the late Pope’s pectoral cross.

The tomb is located near the Altar of St.… pic.twitter.com/gltWSJfccb

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 24, 2025

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