The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis passed away Monday morning following a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
The death certificate, released shortly after his demise, stated that the 88-year-old pontiff died at 7:35 am in his residence at Santa Marta within the Vatican.
His health had taken a severe hit in recent months, including a prolonged hospital stay for double pneumonia.
The document revealed that Pope Francis had previously suffered from arterial hypertension, multiple bronchiectasis, and Type 2 diabetes — conditions that were not publicly known before his death.
The certificate was signed by Professor Andrea Arcangeli, Director of Health for the Vatican City State. Pope Francis, known for championing the causes of the poor, migrants, and interfaith dialogue, had become a transformative figure in the Catholic Church.
His death marks the end of a decade-long papacy that sought inclusivity and reform. Global tributes continue to pour in as the Church prepares to elect his successor.
