'Experience of a lifetime": 400,000 watched Pope Francis’s funeral and procession
Hundreds of thousands of mourners filled St. Peter’s Square and the streets of Rome on Saturday, witnessing what many described as the "experience of a lifetime" as Pope Francis’s coffin was carried to its final resting place.
According to the Vatican, an estimated 400,000 people gathered to pay their respects, following the convoy to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where the beloved pontiff was laid to rest.
Pilgrims from around the world expressed deep emotion at being part of the historic event. Kathryn Gilligan, a 59-year-old American tourist visiting for Holy Week, called it an unforgettable moment. "It was all so beautiful," she shared with the AFP. "To be able to be present for this is unbelievable, and it's an experience of a lifetime and a historical moment as well. We were here to honour a saint, and we look forward to our next Holy Father," she added.
Daniele Abate, a 51-year-old from Sicily, noted, "He proved once again that he was simple to the last and demonstrated his holiness and simplicity."
Some, like Solange Lalanne, a Chilean tourist, found it difficult to get close to the funeral due to security and large crowds. "I saw very little," she said, describing how the area was tightly controlled, restricting access to the procession route. Still, she expressed gratitude for witnessing part of the ceremony, even from a distance.
Among the faithful was Manuel Chipenda, a seminarian from Uganda, who participated in the liturgical service near Via della Conciliazione. "The ceremony was beautiful," he said. "We have a feeling of hope, because we know that God has welcomed the Holy Father Pope Francis."
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at age 88.
