Huge surge in Irish bookings to Rome ahead of Pope's funeral
Online travel agent On the Beach has said it saw an unprecedented rise in bookings to Rome on Tuesday, just 24 hours after the Pope passed away.
The 88-year-old died early on Easter Monday with Cardinal Kevin Farrell announcing the news via a statement released by the Vatican. It seems the Irish are seeking out a Roman holiday following the death of Pope Francis.
He said: 'At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.'
A later statement from the Vatican confirmed that the Pope died of a stroke and subsequent heart failure.
Mourners from across the globe have already gathered in their droves at St Peter's Square in Vatican City, with many hopeful to pay their respects. Online travel agent On the Beach has said it saw an unprecedented rise in bookings to Rome on Tuesday, just 24 hours after Pontif passed away. Pic: Ben STANSALL / AFP)BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images
Now, it seems as though thousands of Irish Catholics are set to make the journey across Europe to witness the historic funeral.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach told Irish Travel Trade Network: 'The Pope's passing prompted an outpouring of grief around the world and what followed was a flurry of bookings to Rome.
'With the Pope's burial due on Saturday and the historic process of the conclave beginning in two weeks' time, we know that people will want to be in the heart of Italy for this historic moment. The 88-year-old died early on Easter Monday with Cardinal Kevin Farrell announcing the news via a statement released by the Vatican. Pic: Andreas Solaro/AFP via Getty Images
'We're expecting bookings to rise further over the next 24 hours following Tuesday's confirmation of dates of service.'
A meeting of cardinals at the Vatican this week has now provided an update on plans for the pope's funeral.
They have confirmed it will take place on Saturday 27 April, at 9am (Irish time).
The funeral will set off a nine day mourning period, which will end in the process of choosing a new pope from 5 May.
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