The latest local news from Santa Maria Maggiore, in English.
Rome stands still and the world's eyes are fixed on the Vatican. Today, Pope Francis is being buried. In attendance are royalty, tens of thousands of mourners – and a long list of the world's most powerful leaders. However, for some, the pomp leaves a bitter aftertaste.
WorldThe King, the Queen, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) and Archbishop Martin Modéus will attend Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday. It is natural to be there and pay tribute to him, says Kristersson.
Swedish politicsThe Catholic world is in mourning after Pope Francis' passing – but there is no time for rest. The funeral will be held on Saturday at St. Peter's Square, the Vatican's cardinals have decided. The Pope's final moment is described as painless.
WorldIn the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, there is an icon of the Virgin Mary that became Pope Francis' favorite. Probably, it is for this reason that the deceased pope requested to be buried there – not in the crypt beneath St. Peter's Basilica where over 90 popes have been laid to rest.
WorldPope Francis has passed away and "returned to the Holy Father", announces the Vatican. Francis died in his apartment due to a stroke that led to coma and heart failure. The Argentine, popular pope was 88 years old.
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