Public Access Granted to Pope Francis's Grave as Conclave Approaches

The grave of Pope Francis is now open to the public at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, following his recent burial. This significant event occurs as preparations for the election of his successor intensify.

The basilica welcomed visitors starting at 7:00 AM today, allowing both the faithful and interested individuals to pay their respects. Pope Francis was laid to rest on Saturday after a prominent requiem mass and a funeral procession through Rome. His choice to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church located outside of Vatican City and one of the four papal basilicas, reflects his deep connection to the site, often visiting to pray before a revered Marian icon.

His burial took place in a modest marble grave marked simply with the name 'Franciscus.' The grave is located near the chapel housing the Salus Populi Romani icon, which the Pope held in high regard. The ceremony for his interment was attended by a select group of cardinals and close associates, conducted in a private manner.

Later today, at 4:00 PM, the gathered cardinals will visit the grave for an evening prayer, marking a moment of reflection amid the ongoing mourning and the impending conclave. This new access to the Pope's final resting place is expected to attract significantly more pilgrims and visitors to the basilica.

As the mourning period draws to a close, attention is set to shift towards the upcoming papal election. The cardinals have begun preliminary discussions regarding the logistics and details of the conclave. Although no official date for the election has been announced, there is speculation that the date may be revealed as early as Monday.

According to canon law, a nine-day mourning period is mandated before the conclave can commence. The earliest possible dates for the papal election would be May 5 or 6. This timing suggests that the election could start in the next couple of weeks.

In the midst of these preparations, discussions about potential candidates for the papacy have sparked public interest. While there are no official nominees, certain figures are emerging as front-runners, including Pietro Parolin, the current Cardinal Secretary of State and a known confidant of Pope Francis.

To be elected as pope, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority from the College of Cardinals during the conclave. The voting process begins with one ballot on the first day, followed by four ballots on subsequent days until a new pope is chosen. The announcement of a new pontiff is signaled by white smoke rising from the specially designated chimney atop the Sistine Chapel.