why is the pope's coffin lined with zinc

The pope's coffin is lined with zinc primarily to preserve the body by protecting it from external elements such as moisture, water, insects, and natural decay. Zinc creates an airtight barrier which slows decomposition and helps the body deteriorate in a more natural, controlled way. This lining is also a more cost-effective method to aid longevity compared to traditional materials like lead. This practice aligns with Pope Francis's wish for simplicity and humility in his burial, opting for a plain wooden coffin lined with zinc instead of the traditional three-coffin arrangement used for previous popes that included cypress, lead, and oak coffins. Zinc liners safeguard the coffin's contents, allowing the memory of the deceased to remain undisturbed and ensuring the resting place endures through time.