Italy imposes five days of national mourning

Italy has declared five days of national mourning following the death of Pope Francis. This was decided by the cabinet of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome.

Keystone-SDA

22.04.2025, 13:20

22.04.2025, 13:21

SDA

The flags in front of public buildings are flying at half-mast. Strict security measures are in place in the Italian capital due to the funeral services and burial on Saturday. Guests of state from all over the world are expected.

At his own request, Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, will not be laid to rest in St. Peter's Basilica, but in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. This papal basilica is located near Rome's main train station, a few kilometers from the Vatican.