Skip to content

Benedict XVI’s final resting place decided: He will be buried in Vatican crypt

Benedict XVI will be buried in the crypt under St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican said Saturday afternoon.

Benedict’s death, at the age of 95, was announced in Rome on Dec. 31. His body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica from the morning of Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, until his funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Jan. 5, 2023.

The tombs in the Vatican crypt are close to the remains of the Catholic Church’s first pope, St. Peter the Apostle.

Benedict XVI’s remains will stay at Mater Ecclesiae Monastery until Jan. 2, 2022, the Vatican said. No official visits or public prayers are planned.

His body will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2023, and from 7 a.m to 7 p.m. on Jan. 3 and 4, 2023, in St. Peter’s Basilica, where members of the public may pay their final respects.

The funeral Mass on Jan. 5, 2023, will take place at 9:30 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square. Attendance is free and requires no reservation.

At the end of the Mass, there will be the Final Commendation and valediction before Benedict XVI’s coffin is carried to the Vatican crypt for burial.

Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today

Share

Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican

Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter.

More news related to this article

Saint Maria Goretti: The Legacy of Forgiveness

Discover the story of Santa Maria Goretti, a young saint known for her heroic forgiveness. Learn about her life, legacy, and the impact of her extraordinary act of mercy on Alessandro Serenelli.

Pontifical Gregorian University announces merger with biblical, Eastern institutes

The historic Jesuit-run Pontifical Gregorian University this week announced its official merger with the Pontifical Biblical Institute and

PHOTOS: Caravaggio 2025: Baroque Master’s Works On Display As Part of Jubilee of Hope

Caravaggio takes center stage in this rare exhibition of his Baroque masterpieces during Rome's Jubilee of Hope.

Pope Leo XIV appoints Capuchin priest and former missionary to lead Florida diocese

The pope also accepted Wednesday the resignation of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, 76, who led the Diocese of

‘The Chosen’ cast visits Vatican after filming Crucifixion scenes in Italy

“The Chosen” actor Jonathan Roumie said Monday coming to the Vatican is a “humbling honor” and a confirmation for him of the TV show’s continued mission of bringing Jesus Christ to the world.

How a Wheelchair, Fencing, and Faith Led One Man to the Vatican’s Jubilee of Sport

EWTN Vatican correspondent Paola Arriaza sits down with Amelio Castro, a refugee and Paralympic wheelchair fencer who collaborates with Athletica Vaticana.

LIVE
FROM THE VATICAN

Be present live on EWTNVatican.com