Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major) in Rome, specifically in a burial niche in the side aisle between the Pauline Chapel (which houses the icon Salus Populi Romani) and the Sforza Chapel. This location reflects his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and his wish for a modest, simple tomb without elaborate decoration, bearing only the inscription "Franciscus"

. This burial site is notable because it breaks with the recent tradition of popes being buried within Vatican City, beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Pope Francis is the first pope in over a century to be interred outside the Vatican, choosing this major papal basilica approximately 2.5 miles from St. Peter's. The basilica is a historically and spiritually significant church, known for its rich artistic heritage and its connection to the Jesuit order, to which Francis belonged before his papacy

. The burial took place after his funeral at St. Peter's Square, followed by a procession through Rome to Santa Maria Maggiore. The pope's coffin was placed near the revered icon of Mary Salus Populi Romani, a symbol he held in great esteem throughout his life and papacy

. In summary, Pope Francis's final resting place is:

• Location: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome
• Specific site: Burial niche in the side aisle between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel
• Significance: Reflects his humility, devotion to the Virgin Mary, and a break from recent papal burial traditions in the Vatican