Condolences Begin for Former Pope Benedict XVI... Memorials Continue

On the 2nd (local time), ordinary believers visiting St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, where the body of former Pope Benedict XVI is enshrined, are seen paying their respects. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Bu Aeri] The public viewing for the late Pope Benedict XVI began on the morning of the 2nd (local time) at the Vatican.

The Holy See opened the doors of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican at 9 a.m. that day to receive the general mourners.

The Holy See placed the body of the late Pope Benedict XVI here so that the faithful could pay their final respects.

Two Swiss Guards in traditional papal vestments stood guard beside the body of the late Pope Benedict XVI.

It was reported that before dawn, the faithful began to gather here, forming a waiting line that stretched around the elliptical St. Peter's Square.

Security authorities expected at least 25,000 people to pass by the body of the late Pope Benedict XVI on the first day of the public viewing, according to the AP news agency.

The late Pope Benedict XVI passed away at the age of 95 on the 31st of last month at the 'Mother of the Church' monastery within the Vatican grounds.

After the three-day public viewing, the funeral Mass for the late Pope Benedict XVI is scheduled to be held on the 5th, presided over by the current Pope Francis.