Pope Francis, turning 87 this weekend, disclosed in an interview that he has chosen to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, breaking with the tradition of St Peter’s Basilica.
This decision, making him the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican, reflects his special connection with the basilica.
Despite health challenges, he expressed plans to visit Belgium in 2024 and expressed hope for visits to Argentina and Polynesia.
The Pope praised his predecessor Benedict XVI’s courageous resignation due to health issues, acknowledging that while he would consider a similar path if necessary, it shouldn’t become a norm for popes.
