Former Pope Benedict XVI lying in state at Vatican begins - BBC News

Tens of thousands of people are expected to pay their respects to former Pope Benedict XVI at his lying in state in the Vatican.

He died on New Year's Eve at the age of 95, almost a decade after he became the first Pope to resign in 600 years, citing ill health.

His body will be displayed for three days in an open casket at St Peter's Basilica, with people allowed to pay their respects until 7pm each evening.

Pope Francis will preside over his funeral on Thursday - the first time a Pope will be buried by his successor.