Details of the Last Journey of Pope Francis Through Rome

The exact route of the funeral procession has not yet been fully decided, but it is believed that it will pass by the most significant sites of the Eternal City. According to the Vatican, the funeral procession with the coffin of Pope Francis will slowly drive to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, allowing pilgrims to say their farewells. The route will be broadcast live on television. The needy will receive the coffin at the basilica entrance. The burial will take place privately. From Sunday, the grave will be accessible to pilgrims.

Pope Francis' Last Journey Through Rome Will Be Heavily Guarded

"The route will be appropriately guarded," assured the Prefect of Rome, Lamberto Giannini, at the end of a meeting of the Committee for Public Order and Safety. Police Chief Roberto Massucci spoke of a "historic moment" for the city of Rome, with thousands of security forces being deployed. The airspace over Rome will be closed during the mourning ceremony and the burial. On Saturday, large screens will be set up in the square in front of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore so that believers can follow the burial ceremony. Already in these days, the influx of pilgrims to the Marian church has increased significantly. "The basilica has attracted special interest due to the news of the Pope's burial," reported Massucci.

Hundreds of Heads of State and Government and Cardinals Expected at Mourning Ceremony for Pope Francis

The entire weekend will be very demanding for the Italian capital in terms of public safety. Hundreds of heads of state and government, as well as monarchs and cardinals, are expected in Rome for the mourning ceremony in St. Peter's Square, including Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and ÖVP Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker. More than 200,000 believers from all over the world will flock to Rome by Saturday to bid farewell to the Pope. Security measures will be further intensified on Friday when US President Donald Trump lands in the capital. Rome's Parioli district, where Villa Taverna, the residence of the US ambassador where Trump will stay, is located, will be under special observation. 170 delegations are expected for the burial.

Drones, Snipers, Dog Units for Security

Drones, snipers, bomb disposal squads, dog units, the river police to monitor the Tiber and the docks, as well as the fire department, are to ensure security in the city. Anti-drone bazookas are also in use, which can disrupt radio waves in the event of unauthorized aircraft sightings. To enter St. Peter's Square, believers must pass through gates with metal detectors. Those who cannot reach the square have the option to follow the service on large screens.

Migrants and refugees will also be present at the funeral, announced the Italian NGO Mediterranea, which has met the Pope several times and received confirmation of their participation from the Prefecture of the Papal Household. A group of poorer people will also be present at the express invitation of the Vatican. "The poor have a privileged place in the heart of God," a Vatican spokesman said. For this reason, a "group of poor and needy people (...) will be present to pay their last respects to Pope Francis before his death."

Grave of Pope Francis Accessible to Believers from Sunday

Just one day after the funeral and burial, believers can visit the grave. As a spokesman for the Holy See announced, the final resting place of the Pontiff will be accessible from this Sunday in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. There, craftsmen are preparing the grave for the Pope in a niche in the side aisle. Francis had always been very fond of the basilica and had always prayed there before and after his trips abroad in front of a Marian icon. He stipulated in his will to be buried there and not in St. Peter's Basilica like his two predecessors John Paul II and Benedict XVI.

(APA/Red)

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