ROME, Italy: The Basilica of Saint Mary Major here opened its doors to the faithful on Sunday to allow visitors to pay their respects at the tomb of the late Pope Francis, one day after he was laid to rest, reported German news agency, dpa.
Hundreds of believers queued early on Sunday morning in front of the church before it opened at 7:00 am (0500 GMT).
Francis chose the church in central Rome for his resting place instead of St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, where many of his predecessors are buried.
He was laid to rest on Saturday following a grand ceremony on St Peter’s Square attended by hundreds of thousands of followers as well as global leaders.
The cardinals, gathered for the funeral service and the upcoming conclave to pick Francis’ successor, are to visit the tomb together at 4:00 pm and hold an evening prayer there. -BERNAMA-dpa
