World
In pictures: Prayers and tears as body of Pope Francis moved to St Peter’s Basilica
The Vatican has opened St Peter’s Basilica to the public so people can pay their final respects to Pope Francis.
Three days of public mourning will take place before the pontiff’s funeral on Saturday.
The body of Pope Francis was moved to St Peter’s Basilica from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta earlier on Wednesday.
Here are pictures of the procession to the basilica, where tens of thousands of mourners are expected to file past the open casket over the next three days.
The body of Pope Francis was escorted by a procession of solemn cardinals and Swiss Guards
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Emotional scenes in St Peter’s Square as the coffin approached the basilica. Pic: Reuters
Large crowds watched Wednesday’s procession. Pic: Reuters
A Swiss Guard stands as people watch in St Peter’s Square. Pic: Reuters
Pic: AP
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
The body of Pope Francis is carried in a coffin into St Peter’s Basilica. Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
The procession reaches the final moments in St Peter’s Basilica. Pic: Reuters
The wooden casket was perched on a slight ramp with Swiss Guards nearby. Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters
Pic: Reuters