Pope Francis funeral latest: World leaders arriving to pay respects at historic Vatican ceremony
Thousands of people are arriving at St Peter’s Square this morning for the Pope Francis, hoping to share in commemorations of the life of the head of the Catholic Church.
Crowds began gathering hours before dawn, as people tried to find a spot where they might catch a glimpse of the late pontiff as his body passes by on the way to the Basilica of St Mary Major – his final burial place. Some people were seen sleeping on the pavement.
More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the funeral, along with major world leaders in attendance, including Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron and others.
Some 220 cardinals, 750 bishops and priests are expected to be near the altar, and more than 4,000 other priests will be in the square to witness the ceremony beginning at 10am local time (9am BST).
The funeral is taking place five days after the 88-year-old Pontiff’s death on Monday from a stroke, and following several days of global mourning for the Argentinian remembered for his humble leadership style and championing of the downtrodden.
On Friday night the Pope’s coffin was sealed in a private Vatican ceremony after three days of public viewings attended by 250,000 people.
