The pope says he wants to be buried in the Rome basilica, not in the Vatican

Pope Francis, turning 87, wants to be buried in St. Mary Major basilica in Rome near his favorite icon of the Madonna. He never considered resigning this year despite health scares, including acute bronchitis. Francis is planning trips to Belgium, Polynesia, and Argentina, with travel plans being rethought due to limitations. He confirmed the possibility of resignation and expressed his devotion to the Salus populi Romani. Francis had two bouts of bronchitis, hospitalization for an abdominal hernia, and uses a wheelchair and cane. He wants to be buried in the basilica he holds dear.