Pope Francis decided to leave behind centuries of funeral pomp. In November 2024, he requested to be buried in a simple wooden coffin, avoiding the traditional three coffins of cypress, lead, and oak.
Additionally, he expressed his wish not to be displayed on a platform in St. Peter's Basilica and to rest, after his death, in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. Each of these decisions reflected his austere lifestyle and his vision of a close and humble Church.
These changes were part of a broader reform in papal funeral rituals that he himself introduced, seeking greater sobriety.
What is done with the body: techniques and exceptions in papal funerals
The death of a pope has historically been surrounded by solemnity and symbolism. However, there is no strict rule about what to do with his body. Over time, pontiffs have chosen various practices according to their beliefs.
In recent times, thanatopraxy has become popular, a technique of temporary preservation that replaced traditional embalming. This option was applied to the body of Benedict XVI after his death on December 31, 2022. The procedure, carried out by a medical team led by Dr. Andrea Fantozzi, allowed for his public display without visible alterations.
John Paul II also received the same treatment before his wake in St. Peter's Basilica. After his funeral, he was buried in the Vatican grottos.
