Sixteen Reuters photographers, some inside St. Peter's Basilica, others perched on podiums or deep within the crowd, shot the key moments and conveyed the sheer scale, capturing the solemnity as the pallbearers raised the pope's simple coffin and individuals clasped their hands in silent prayer.

Most of the funeral will be celebrated in Latin, and there will be incense and hymns and Gregorian chants. Attended by dozens of heads of state, monarchs and other dignitaries, it will be, in any case, a spectacle. And at the center of it all will be Francis’ simple coffin, on the esplanade of St. Peter’s Basilica.