The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Francis’ body after his death. He was dressed in red vestments and his bishop’s miter, with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, praying over him.
His body lies in state at the Domus Sanctae Marthae chapel, surrounded by Swiss Guards, cardinals, and Vatican officials. The coffin will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for public veneration on April 23, 2025.
Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell presides over the rite of the ascertainment of death and the placement of the late Pope Francis’ body in the coffin, which took place on Monday evening in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/63aPKTW9nD
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 22, 2025

