Tens of thousands of mourners have filed past the body of the late Pope John Paul at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, as they pay final respects to the 84-year old Pontiff who died Saturday.
The viewing began after the pontiff's body arrived in the Basilica Monday following a solemn procession through Saint Peter's Square. Laid out in crimson and white vestments, Pope John Paul's body will lie in state in the days leading up to Friday's funeral -- which is expected to attract some two million mourners. He will be buried in a crypt below the Basilica.
The funeral is expected to draw hundreds of foreign leaders and dignitaries, including President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. A Vatican spokesman said cardinals planning the funeral have yet to set a date for choosing the next pope, although such a meeting must be convened by April 22nd.