Reason why Pope Francis' apartment is sealed with wax as coffin plans are revealed

Following Pope Francis' death earlier this week, the pontiff's apartment was sealed with red ribbon and wax, as per tradition - but why?

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday (21 April) at the age of 88 following his hospitalisation with double pneumonia earlier this year.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement that 'the Bishop of Rome, Francis' had 'returned to the home of the Father', adding: "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised."

The Vatican announced the Pope's passing, and his cause of death has since been revealed as a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.

Following his passing, a series of protocols have been implemented, including sealing the pontiff's apartment after death.

The tradition is part of the 'sede vacante' or 'vacant see' which refers to the period between the death of a pope and the electing of his successor.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra all sealed the door of Pope Francis' apartment in the Vatican.

The door is first taped, before being stamped and impressed with Francis' papal seal.

The door of Pope Francis' apartment has been sealed (Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)

Finally, red ribbon is tied around the door handles and a wax seal is added to ensure no looting takes place, Sky reports.

The officials could be seen draping the ribbon through the handles and sealing it with wax, before they each checked if the door had been locked.

On Tuesday (22 April) it was announced that Pope Francis' funeral will take place on Saturday (26 April) with world leaders from across the globe set to gather to celebrate his life.

Following his death, it has now been revealed what the late Pope wanted for his burial according to a final testament released by the Vatican.

While previous pontiffs have been buried in coffins made of cypress, lead and oak, it's reported that Pope Francis' coffin will simply be made from wood and lined with zinc, as per his request.

The Papal apartment was sealed with wax and ribbon (Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)

According to Crisis magazine, zinc is used in coffins as a cost-effective way to aid the longevity of a body.

Meanwhile, according to Steve Soult Limited coffin manufacturers - who shared a video on the topic on TikTok - there's a very touching reason why zinc is used to line caskets.

Alongside a clip explaining why zinc is added to the interiors of coffins, they wrote: "Zinc liners provide an added layer of protection against external factors such as water, insects, and other natural elements.

"By safeguarding the coffin, these liners ensure that the memory of our loved ones remains undisturbed, allowing us to find solace in knowing that their resting place will endure the test of time."

They also added: "The zinc liner slows the process and aids the body to deteriorate in a more natural way from the exterior elements of the coffin in the ground."