Funeral of Benedict XVI, Pope emeritus who died on Saturday at the age of 95Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Thursday after three days in which mourners could see his body and pay their last respects.
Benedict has lived inside the Vatican, barely appearing in public, since he resigned in 2013, becoming the first pope to step down from the role in six centuries. The eight-year pontificate of Benedict, a widely respected theologian whose papacy derives from one of Europe’s patron saints, was marred by scandals that ultimately eventually forced him to resign.
His funeral, the first in modern history to be presided over by a sitting pope, had the solemnity of the tradition of the pope, but lacked some of the prayers reserved for current popes. , as well as some readings and more loose etiquette. Only two official delegations attended, namely Italy and Germany, Benedict’s hometown. Other heads of state and monarchs attended.
These are scenes from the funeral and for three days where the faithful were able to see his body in St. Peter’s.
Thursday
Pope Francis presides over Benedict’s funeral.
Cardinals in St Peter’s Square before the funeral.
A mourner prays in St Peter’s Square.
A cardinal blesses Benedict’s coffin.
The mourners arrived in St Peter’s Square early.
Thousands of people gathered for the ceremony.
Bishops and cardinals at the funeral.
Prepare to say a final goodbye to the pope emeritus.
Members of the Swiss Guard among a group of bishops.
Pope Francis, sitting, presided over the funeral.
Germans in traditional dress line up for a spot in St. Peter’s Square.
The mourners waiting to enter St Peter’s Square spent the night in the streets.
Wednesday
The body of Benedict XVI lies in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Sisters at St Peter’s Square on the evening before Benedict’s funeral.
People lined up to see Benedict’s body.
Bishops and cardinals pray in the basilica near the body of Benedict.
Line up to pay homage to the emeritus pope.
