Pope Francis’ funeral has officially begun, and along with it, several questions about Vatican traditions have resurfaced. One of the most touching customs is that each pope can choose personal items to be buried with. So, what did Jorge Mario Bergoglio—better known as Pope Francis—decide to bring on his final journey?
The Special Objects Laid to Rest with Pope Francis
One of the first objects that caught attention was his silver ring—the same one he wore back when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Unlike the traditional Ring of the Fisherman, which is destroyed after a pope’s death, Francis requested to keep his own, emphasizing his values of humility and pastoral continuity.
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A simple black-beaded rosary was also placed inside his coffin. More than an accessory, it represented his deep Marian devotion and life of constant prayer, following a funeral tradition that dates back to the time of Pope Paul VI.
Another meaningful addition: twelve coins minted during each year of his papacy. These symbolize the years of service he devoted to transforming the Church from within and reaffirm his commitment to his spiritual mission.
Among the sacred items was also a rogito—a document sealed inside a metal tube summarizing his life, actions, and spiritual legacy. This written testimony, a long-standing Vatican tradition, ensures that the memory of Pope Francis will be preserved for generations to come.
The Symbolism Behind His Final Vestments
Every detail of Francis’ burial was full of meaning, including his clothing. He was dressed in a red chasuble—a color symbolizing martyrdom and selfless sacrifice—along with a white pallium with black crosses marking his authority as Bishop of Rome, and a white mitre with golden trims, representing his spiritual dignity.
Perhaps one of the most touching gestures was Pope Francis’ choice to be buried in his worn black orthopedic shoes—the same ones he wore daily throughout his pontificate.
Unlike his predecessors, who traditionally wore red shoes symbolizing martyrdom and papal authority, Francis chose practicality and humility until the very end. This choice reflected his commitment to a simpler, more approachable image of the Church, breaking with centuries of ostentation.
Historically, the red shoes traced back to Roman imperial customs, later adapted by the Church to signify the pope’s earthly power and the blood of martyrs. But from the beginning of his papacy, Francis rejected that symbolism, staying true to the values of accessibility, service, and humility.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Alan Cruz in Cultura Colectiva.
