Pope Francis’ funeral is set to take place on Saturday in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican announced on Tuesday.

The event, expected to attract millions of mourners, has already drawn significant media attention, with global outlets preparing to cover the proceedings in detail. U.S. networks such as CNN, CBS, and NBC have reportedly made logistical arrangements, including reserving terrace space to capture the best views of St. Peter’s Square.

The funeral will be followed by a conclave to elect the next Pope, which is expected to take place between May 5 and 10. A group of 135 cardinals from around the world will convene in the Sistine Chapel for this secretive process, adhering to strict protocols.

On Tuesday, the cardinals gathered in the Vatican’s synod hall to set the funeral date for 10 a.m. CET on Saturday. The ceremony will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, along with Argentine President Javier Milei, are expected to attend the service, which will also feature a large presence of world leaders, clergy, and Catholic faithful.

Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88, had recently emerged from convalescence after a battle with pneumonia and other health issues. His death followed a stroke that led to heart failure. Francis was last seen in public on Easter Sunday, when he took a ride in his popemobile to bless thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square.

Pope Francis’ body, currently in a wooden casket and flanked by Swiss Guards, will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, where mourners can pay their respects for the next three days.