Rome, 21 April 2025 (dpa/MIA) – The Vatican has announced that the body of Pope Francis is likely to be transferred to St Peter's Basilica on Wednesday.

After the transfer from the chapel in Francis' last residence in the Vatican to the large basilica, the faithful should have the opportunity to pay their last respects to the deceased pope, the Vatican said on Monday.

However, the date will only be officially confirmed when the cardinals meet on Tuesday morning for the first time since Francis' death, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said.

At this meeting, the first decisions on the plans for the funeral and other important matters will be made.

Following the adoption by Francis of new, streamlined funeral rites for popes, the pope's body will not be laid out on a catafalque as was the case with previous deceased popes.

Instead, a comparatively simple coffin will be placed where the faithful can pay their last respects.

MIA file photo