Why Pope Francis’s apartment door was sealed with wax after his death at 88

A crimson ribbon, melted wax, an official seal… This scene might seem like something out of a medieval novel. Yet it’s a very real gesture, steeped in history and solemnity. Since the death of Pope Francis, a series of sacred traditions has been underway in the heart of the Vatican. Among them, one particularly striking scene: the door to his apartment was sealed with wax. But why?

The death of Pope Francis, a moment of global reflection

On  April 21, 2025 ,  Easter Monday , Pope Francis  died peacefully  at the age of  88 , the victim of a  stroke . Already weakened by  chronic respiratory problems , he died in his  Vatican residence , surrounded by his close collaborators.

This announcement, made by Cardinal  Kevin Farrell , shocked the entire world. The Argentine pontiff, known for his simplicity and his closeness to the most modest, had deeply affected the faithful since his election in  2013 .