His apartment was sealed almost immediately 👀 Check comments 👇🏻

Pope Francis, known for his humility and simple lifestyle, died of a stroke at age 88, prompting the Vatican to initiate centuries-old rituals. One of the first: sealing his personal residence with a silk cord and wax seal — a tradition meant to prevent tampering with papal documents and maintain security until a new pope is elected.

Photos released Tuesday show Francis lying in repose in red vestments, symbolizing martyrdom, with a rosary in hand. Though he chose to live modestly at Casa Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace, his room was still sealed, upholding Vatican protocol.

Another key ritual is the destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring, symbolizing the pope’s authority. The ring and papal seal will be destroyed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell to prevent misuse.

Pope Francis’ funeral is set for Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square. His body will later be moved to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he requested to be buried.