Cardinals Meeting in the Vatican to Set Funeral Date for Pope Francis

Cardinals are meeting at in the Vatican to decide the date for his funeral.

The meeting that opened at 9am local time (7:00 GMT) marks the first in a series of "general congregations"—formal assemblies that bring together cardinals from across the globe following the death of a pope.

During this initial session, they are expected to determine when Pope Francis's body will be transferred to St Peter's Basilica, where the public will have the opportunity to pay their last respects.

The Vatican had earlier on Monday indicated that this transfer could happen as early as Wednesday morning, allowing pilgrims and dignitaries to begin filing past his body in tribute.

Traditionally, nine days of official mourning, known as novemdiales, follow the death of a pope.

During this period, special prayers and Masses are held daily in honour of the deceased pontiff.

The funeral and burial typically take place between the fourth and sixth days after death, meaning the ceremony for Pope Francis is likely to occur by the end of the week.

Further details, including the exact date of the funeral, the rites to be observed, and the dignitaries expected to attend, will be announced following the deliberations of the cardinals.

The funeral and burial typically take place between the fourth and sixth days after death, meaning the ceremony for Pope Francis is likely to occur by the end of the week.