As thousands gather in Vatican City to honor the late Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at age 88, controversy has erupted over mourners taking selfies beside his open casket during his lying-in-state at St. Peter’s Basilica. While the Vatican did not ban photography, many faithful expressed dismay over what they deemed “disrespectful” behavior.
While the atmosphere was intended to be solemn, some visitors prioritized capturing the moment, drawing public backlash. Images circulating on Instagram and other platforms showed individuals smiling with the Pope’s body visible in the background, dressed in traditional papal garments. Despite requests to refrain from selfies and the use of selfie sticks, crowds raised their phones and even extended camera gear to capture the moment, overshadowing the intended reflection.
One mourner, Janine Venables from Wales, told MailOnline she found the photo-taking “in poor taste,” particularly given restrictions on photography elsewhere in the Vatican. Her husband, Paul Taylor, remarked that Pope Francis would likely have urged people to spend their time aiding others instead.
Official photos revealed a sea of phone screens above the Pope’s coffin as nearly 50,000 mourners had already paid their respects within the first 24 hours. Though some guards attempted to intervene, many visitors ignored guidance. A Vatican source commented, “It would be good if people could try and remember where they are and have a little respect.”
The basilica remained open through the night to accommodate overwhelming crowds, with many waiting up to eight hours. World leaders, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, are among those paying respects. Following the funeral, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a personal request that marks a break from traditional papal customs.
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