In images: thousands gather in the Vatican for the funeral of Pope Francis

This Saturday about half a million people meet in San Pedro Square to fire Pope Francis.

The funeral of the Pontiff, who died on April 21 at age 88, summoned – from 10.00 local time – the highest political and religious leaders in the world.

At least 50 Heads of State and Figures of Royalty gathered in the heart of the Vatican to give the last goodbye to Jorge Mario Bergoglio, secular name of the deceased leader.

It is a historical ceremony, full of symbolisms according to Francisco’s imprint; A Pope who distanced himself from the luxuries of the Church and that – for many – will be remembered for his struggle to make it a more inclusive and progressive organization.

The first Latin American Pope, the first Jesuit and also the first to use the name of Francisco, in tribute to the Radical San Francisco de Asís, broke canons and precedents during his 12 years of papacy and will also do it the day of his burial.

It will be the first pontiff in a century that will not rest in the Grutas of the Basilica of San Pedro. Francisco decided that his last abode is the basilica of Santa María la Mayor, also in Rome, about 6 kilometers away from the Vatican.

In BBC Mundo we invite you to review the most iconic images of this ceremony and to follow our Live In all our platforms.

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