John Paul II's tomb opens to pilgrims
More than 1000 people already in line this morning.
Vatican City (AsiaNews/Agencies) - This morning at 7 a.m. Rome time (GMT +1), the Vatican crypts were reopened and it is now possible to visit John Paul II's burial place. The crypt had been closed on April 3, the day following the Pope's death, so that the tomb could be prepared.
As of 4 a.m. this morning, pilgrims were lining up in front of St Peter's Basilica and, two hours later, 300 people were already waiting to pay their respects. Once the gates were opened, about one thousand people were in line. Vatican security said that there is currently no waiting time, but there is a steady and constant flow of people through the Vatican grottoes. Pilgrims visiting the Pope's burial place have been asked to not bring flowers so that the tomb can be kept clear.
Early yesterday afternoon, Sister Nirmala, superior of the Sisters of Mother Teresa, accompanied by Cardinal Francesco Marchisano, Archpriest of the Vatican basilica, spent time in prayer in front of the Pope's tomb.
John Paul II's tomb is located in the chapel that, until 2000, had contained the earthly remains of John XXIII. In accordance with the wishes he expressed in his last will, the Pope was not buried in a sarcophagus, but in the ground, his tomb covered by a slab of Carrara marble engraved with a Cross, the Pope's name in Latin, and the dates of his pontificate. The wall behind the tomb is decorated with a stone bas-relief depicting a Madonna and Child with angels, and a vase holding several calla lilies.
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