Pope Francis’ casket was placed at the center of St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday (local time), where it will remain open to the public for three days of mourning. The Vatican announced that the late pontiff, who died at his residence at Casa Santa Marta, was accompanied by a Latin hymn repeating one of his most beloved phrases: “Pray for us.” Public visitation began at 11 a.m., with crowds forming long lines both inside and outside the Vatican. Due to the turnout, movement in many areas became nearly impossible. Mourners were supposed to visit from 11 a.m. to midnight on Wednesday, 7 a.m. to midnight on Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. In accordance with Catholic tradition, the Pope’s casket will remain open during this time to allow the faithful to bid their final farewell. Dressed in red liturgical vestments with his hands gently folded, the Pope rests below eye level — not on an elevated platform, but directly on the floor — emphasizing his lifelong commitment to humility and simplicity. Unlike many of his predecessors, who were buried in St. Peter’s Basilica
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