Popes are traditionally buried in various significant churches in Rome, with the majority interred beneath St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Over half of the deceased popes-possibly more than 140-are buried there, including many in the Vatican grottoes beneath the basilica
. However, not all popes are buried in St. Peter's Basilica. Other important burial sites in Rome include:
- Basilica of St. John Lateran (San Giovanni in Laterano), where about 22 popes are buried
- Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major), where at least seven popes, including Pope Francis, are buried
- Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, Basilica of San Lorenzo fuori le mura, Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles, and others also hold papal tombs
Pope Francis broke with recent tradition by choosing to be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore rather than the Vatican. This basilica is a highly significant church in Rome, located on the Esquiline Hill and known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Francis requested a simple tomb there, marking the first time in over a century a pope will be buried outside the Vatican precincts
. In summary, while most popes are buried beneath St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, others are interred in several major Roman basilicas, with Pope Francis notably choosing Santa Maria Maggiore for his burial.
