by For people with trips to Rome, it is reasonable to have questions about what happens exactly after the Pope’s death in the city. There can also be Catholics who want to travel to Rome and the Vatican at short notice.
What happens in Rome when the Pope dies?
The death of a Pope is a solemn time for the Catholic Church. It is nine days of grief (called Novendiale) and a carefully choreographed ceremonial process in the Vatican City, which takes weeks.
In the coming days there will be a time when people can show their respect in St. Peter’s Basilica in which the Pope is up to. The funeral must take place between four and six days after the Pope’s death followed by the conclave (approx. 15 to 20 days after the Pope’s death). After a new Pope has been elected, he will appear publicly on St. Peter’s Square.
Rebecca Winke, expert for Telegraph Travel Destination, who has lived in Rome since 1993, reflects the general feeling in Rome after the death of Pope John Paul II in 2005: “The area in the city of Vatican was full of grieving, and the curious, waiting around the world that was waiting for hours to fulfill their respect, but only Blocks the city that has lit the city.
“Rome and the Romans have lived in Jowl with the Pope for centuries, so that their relationship with the Vatican matters is symbiotic and pragmatic at the same time.”
Can you visit the Vatican and will be the basilica and the Sistine chapel?
After the death of Pope Francis, the basilica of St. Pet is closed during some religious services, and the Vatican Museums (and the Sistine Chapel) will probably be closed on the day of the funeral and can also close a day or two depending on the service plan.
The Sistine chapel then closes during the conclave for the selection of the new Pope, which occurs after the Pope’s funeral. Typically, the conclave between 15 and 20 days after the Pope’s death is called so that the cardinals can collect. But things could move faster because it is the anniversary year in Rome. In 2013, the conclave, which was voted Pope Francis, lasted around 24 hours. Sometimes it can take much longer – in the 13th century the College of Cardinals took three years to do Pope Gregory X.
Will the Square of St. Peter remain open?
St. Peter’s Square remains open during the mourning time so that the public can show their respect. The funeral mass is usually accessible to the public, but reservations may be necessary (free of charge).
Will shops and restaurants in Rome close?
Companies in Rome do not usually conclude during the mourning period, which follows the Pope’s death. However, a shop in and around the Vatican City can be disturbed.
Are hotels open?
Yes, hotels are open and in all likelihood more bustling than usual when pilgrims travel from all over the world to have their respect.
Will museums and churches in Rome remain open?
Museums and churches in Rome (outside the Vatican) remain open, although some churches – especially papal basilica – be closed for tourists for special services and ceremonies.
Pope Francis has expressed his wish to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore. So if he is actually locked up there, special masses and services can be expected.
Will still guided tours take place?
Most of the guided tours will probably still take place as usual, although the travel routes are changed on the day of funeral and access to the sights in the Vatican Vatican. If you have booked a tour in the canceled Vatican City, you will probably be a refund or reimbursement option – check the conditions or contact the company.
Will it be more bustle in Rome than ordinary?
This year is already an important year for Rome. The city celebrates an anniversary year (also known as a holy year), an event that takes place every 25 years. This is a special year in which Catholic pilgrims from all over the world travel to Rome to worship the holy door, pray, pray and go (doors when choosing basilicas that opened in the anniversary year).
In addition to the pilgrims who have already booked Rome in 2025, there will probably be a considerable further influx of people who travel to the city. In 2005 reports indicated that up to four million people traveled from outside of Rome to testify to the funeral of John Paul II.
Will there be an increased safety presence?
Visitors should expect the parent of the parent of people and increased security, but the rest of the city will work more or less than normal. Public transport to and from the Vatican will probably be particularly busy.
Where can I find the latest information?
If you have booked an entrance stick or a tour of a museum or a church in Rome or the Vatican, it is advisable to check your official website before you are on the go to check whether there are changes to the schedule. Vatican News (Vaticannews.VA) is a good source of information – including schedules and times. You should also check the Jubilee website (iubilaeum2025.va), on which updates are likely to be published.
