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4w ago

Rome Prepares for Funeral of Pope Francis with Record Crowds and Tight Security

As Pope Francis's body lies in state for a final day, 200,000 attendees are expected at Saturday's funeral, with unprecedented security measures in place.

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Overview

  • Pope Francis's body remains on public display in St. Peter's Basilica until Friday evening, with over 90,000 visitors paying their respects since Wednesday.
  • Saturday's funeral at St. Peter's Square is expected to draw 200,000 attendees, including 50 heads of state and 130 international delegations.
  • Security around the Vatican has been intensified with flight bans, anti-drone systems, and extensive police and military patrols to safeguard the event.
  • Following the funeral mass, Pope Francis's body will be transported through Rome to Santa Maria Maggiore, fulfilling his testamentary wish for a simple burial.
  • Cardinals continue daily meetings to prepare for the early-May conclave to select Francis's successor, with discussions paused for the funeral weekend.