Pope Francis held a special place in his heart for the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, one of five ancient basilicas in Rome and where he chose to be entombed. In his final testament, issued after his April 21 death, Pope Francis wrote, “I wish my last earthly journey to end at this very ancient Marian shrine where I would go to pray at the beginning and end of each apostolic journey to confidently entrust my intentions to the Immaculate Mother and to thank her for the docile and maternal care.” Why were Francis and seven other popes who are also buried there so attached to this church?