Mural in Rome Draws Attention Ahead of Pope Francis’ Funeral
As tens of thousands gather in Vatican City to commemorate the passing of Pope Francis, a provocative street mural in Rome is attracting significant attention due to its bold commentary on the funeral’s attendees. Painted by renowned street artist Laika, the mural humorously portrays Pope Francis in heaven, visibly perplexed as he holds a “guest list” for his own funeral. The list notably includes names of figures who had complicated relationships with the pontiff, such as former US President Donald Trump, Argentine President Javier Milei, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In Italian, the Pope asks, “Ma questi chi li ha invitati?”, translated as “But who invited these?”.
Laika described the attendance of these figures as a “parade of hypocrisy,” openly suggesting Pope Francis would have preferred to exclude some guests if given the chance.
The mural’s visibility and timing underscore a global dialogue on Pope Francis’ legacy and his often contentious engagement with powerful political leaders.
“I think that Francesco, if he could, would have gladly crossed those names off his guest list,” the artist explained in a statement accompanying her work.
This satirical artwork emerged as the world’s attention turned to Vatican City, where a substantial international presence, comprising over 130 delegations and 50 heads of state, gathered for the pontiff’s funeral. The mural underscores ongoing public scrutiny and debate over the true nature of international political gestures, especially in the context of a Pope revered for his advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
Global Figures and Ordinary Citizens Mourn Pope Francis
The funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica marks a significant event in recent Vatican history, attracting an estimated 200,000 mourners and high-profile dignitaries from around the globe. Attendees included US President Donald Trump, India’s President Droupadi Murmu, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. As the first Latin American Pope, Francis’ death at 88 after suffering a stroke incited global grief and commemorations reflecting his distinct pastoral style and inclusive message.
Across the world, community tributes took various creative forms, reflecting diverse interpretations of his legacy. In Los Angeles, thousands attended a memorial Mass led by Archbishop José H. Gomez at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Archbishop Gomez emphasized Francis’ advocacy for empathy, inclusion, and compassion for the marginalized, which became hallmarks of his papacy.
In a similarly heartfelt tribute, students at St. John’s University in California created a large mosaic honoring Pope Francis. Daniel Napolitano, the university’s director of student services for the Tobin College of Business, spearheaded the artistic project, which involved painting magnetic tiles to form a portrait of the late Pope. Napolitano emphasized that the communal process of creating the mosaic was itself a tribute to Pope Francis’s values of unity and community solidarity.
“This was truly about sitting in community,” Napolitano noted. “Sharing stories and reflecting on Pope Francis’ impact on our lives was the real work of art.”
Pope Francis’ Artistic Legacy and Broader Influence
Beyond the immediate political and religious spheres, the funeral proceedings have highlighted the extensive cultural and artistic influence Pope Francis had during his tenure. Mauro Pallotta, known popularly as Maupal, is among several artists who passionately depicted the pontiff through street art across Rome. Among Pallotta’s renowned works is “Super Pope,” symbolizing Francis as a heroic figure striving for global peace. This piece is one of 28 murals created during Pope Francis’ papacy, though controversially, authorities removed all but three pieces.
Pallotta described his work as a means of perpetuating Pope Francis’ humanitarian and peace-driven message. Notably, seven pieces were commissioned directly by Pope Francis himself, underscoring the pontiff’s personal endorsement of art as a communication tool. Pallotta plans to continue capturing the essence of future pontiffs, advocating that art remains pivotal in shaping perceptions and understanding of Vatican leadership.
Pope Francis’ proactive revision of funeral rites before his passing further signals his preference to be remembered primarily as a humble priest, rather than as a powerful religious leader. These revisions simplified traditional Vatican customs, aligning closely with his lifelong call for humility and solidarity with the marginalized. Further signifying continuity with his social advocacy, convicts and migrants played special roles in the funeral procession, a choice reflecting Francis’ enduring commitment to advocating for society’s most vulnerable.
In the wake of Pope Francis’ death, the Vatican now faces the task of preserving and expanding upon a distinctly inclusive and compassionate legacy. As the Vatican mourns Francis, attention will shift toward the Papal Conclave, where church leaders will select his successor, setting the stage for the future trajectory of the Catholic Church.