The images of Pope Francis lying peacefully in his coffin reveal much more than what first meets the eye — every element carries a deeper meaning.

From the non-traditional casket to the carefully chosen personal items placed beside him, the late Pope’s final farewell breaks away from centuries of Vatican custom — all according to his own wishes.

As the world says goodbye to Pope Francis, his burial will reflect the very values he lived by. Celebrated for his humility, simplicity, and deep compassion for the marginalized, his final resting place stands as a moving symbol of the legacy he leaves behind.

The personal belongings he asked to be buried with offer one last glimpse into a life rooted in service, love, and transformation.

The beloved 88-year-old Pope passed away on Monday after suffering a severe stroke that led to irreversible heart failure. After weeks of struggling with pneumonia, the Argentine-born spiritual leader passed peacefully within the Vatican walls.

What’s inside the Pope’s casket?

On Tuesday, the Vatican released the first striking images of Pope Francis lying in repose, offering a glimpse of the symbolic items placed with him as he embarks on his final journey.

His casket, guarded by ceremonial watchmen, rested in solemn silence while Vatican officials and members of his household gathered to pay their last respects in a quiet, intimate farewell.

In the images shared, Pope Francis is seen lying in an open coffin, dressed in red vestments — a color that represents martyrdom and the blood of Christ. A rosary is delicately placed in his folded hands.

Also placed inside the coffin are his mitre (the traditional papal headpiece), his crozier (a shepherd’s staff symbolizing his pastoral role), and a set of coins minted during his time as pope — a tradition that spans centuries and represents his service as the Vicar of Christ.

The coffin also holds a rogito — a sealed document that outlines the key moments of his life and papacy. On his right hand, the Pope wears the broken Fisherman’s Ring, which is ceremonially destroyed before burial to mark the conclusion of his papal authority.

This act of destruction also prevents the ring from being misused, as it originally served as a seal for the pope’s private correspondence.

A look at the coffin

Pope Francis’s passing signals a noticeable break from the long-standing traditions surrounding papal funerals—and his coffin alone tells that story.