Rome is bracing for one of its largest security operations in years as over 200,000 people, including world leaders and royals, are expected to gather for Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday at St. Peter’s Square.
Security will be tight, with more than 2,000 local police and thousands more from national forces deployed throughout the city. Measures include drones, river patrols on the Tiber, anti-drone devices, and rooftop snipers, officials said.
Rome Police Chief Roberto Massucci emphasized the complexity of securing so many dignitaries all converging in one area. Among the global figures attending are U.S. President Donald Trump, and royalty from Spain, Sweden, and Belgium.
The Pope’s coffin, now lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, will be moved after the funeral to Santa Maria Maggiore, where he chose to be buried. Roads around the Vatican will be closed, and large crowds are expected along the 4-kilometer route.
To accommodate the influx of people, Italy’s railway is adding 260,000 train seats, and Rome’s airports expect 20,000 additional passengers beyond normal holiday traffic. A backup military airport, Pratica di Mare, has been prepped for incoming state jets.
A no-fly zone over Rome remains in effect, and security teams are already in position as thousands of mourners continue to file past the late pontiff’s coffin.
The solemnity won’t end with the funeral. As tradition follows, huge crowds are expected for the papal conclave, which will begin after May 6, when cardinals gather to elect the next pope.