Why the Vatican allowed heartbroken nun to break major protocol during visit to Pope Francis’ casket

Over the weekend, the late Pope Francis' funeral took place in Rome, with global leaders from around the world travelling to pay their respects to the Pontiff.

Presidents, prime ministers and cardinals mourned the Pope's death, including Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US president Donald Trump - who was criticised over his outfit - and future King of England Prince William.

Of course, those closest to the Pope were also in attendance, including 81-year-old Sister Genevieve Jeanningros, a French-Argentine nun who had reportedly known the Pope for many decades.

In fact, in a break from tradition, Sister Jeanningros was actually allowed to deter from protocol and stand near to Pope Francis' coffin, in an area usually restricted to bishops, priests and cardinals.

Days before the funeral, captured in heartfelt footage that has since gone viral on social media, Jeanningros approached the restricted area around his coffin while he was lying in state.

With the assistance of an official, she was able to get as close as possible while she held a handkerchief to dry her tears.

The emotional moment has captured the hearts of people around the world, meanwhile Sister Jeanningros herself has described Francis as 'a brother, a pope, [and] a friend'.

"He will be missed by everyone," she added. "And I'm moved to see so many people here today."

Sister Jeanningros could be seen sobbing by the side of Pope Francis' coffin (Vatican Media)

It's said that the Vatican made an exception for Sister Jeanningros due to both her close relationship with Pope Francis, and the Pontiff's own legacy as a Pope who challenged some of the most controversial topics within the Catholic Church.

He was also known for breaking from tradition himself, opting for a simple coffin made from wood and lined with zinc.

Prior to his death, he wrote: "As I sense the approaching twilight of my earthly life, and with firm hope in eternal life, I wish to set out my final wishes solely regarding the place of my burial.

"... I ask that my tomb be prepared in the burial niche in the side aisle between the Pauline Chapel (Chapel of the Salus Populi Romani) and the Sforza Chapel of the Basilica, as shown in the attached plan.

"The tomb should be in the ground; simple, without particular ornamentation, bearing only the inscription: Franciscus.

Jeanningros gave a short interview ahead of her friend's funeral on Saturday (26 April) (YouTube/@@noticias)

"The cost of preparing the burial will be covered by a sum provided by a benefactor, which I have arranged to be transferred to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major."

Pope Francis and Sister Jeanningros' friendship first began in Argentina, where Jeanningros worked with disadvantaged communities and individuals.

According to local media, Jeanningros has dedicated her entire career of 56 years to helping the most vulnerable people in society.

Meanwhile, Francis once called her the 'living example of the Gospel', according to edatv.news.