Pope Francis, formerly known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, shared a profound connection with Santa Maria Maggiore during his papacy, marked by regular visits for prayer. His final journey will culminate with his burial in this basilica, rather than the customary resting place beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Francis, who passed away at 88, chose a more humble interment in a niche previously used for candlestick holders, reflecting his enduring commitment to simplicity and service to the poor, a tenet of his papacy.
'On 23 March, the day he was discharged from hospital after a near fatal bout of pneumonia, he stopped by to deliver flowers on his way back to the Vatican.'
'He snuck out of the Vatican to go to pray at Santa Maria Maggiore... Francis frequented the basilica, mostly to pray before and after trips overseas.'
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