Topline
Tens of thousands of people lined up at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and a stadium in Santos, Brazil, to mourn the deaths of Pope Benedict XVI and soccer legend Pelé, respectively, in a rare day of massive public viewings on opposite sides of the world after the international icons died last week.
Key Facts
More than 60,000 people passed through St. Peter’s Basilica on Monday to see the body of the former pope, in the first of three days of public viewing.
In southeastern Brazil, thousands made their way to the midfield of Vila Belmiro Stadium, where Pelé’s casket was placed—FIFA president Gianni Infantino was among those who queued to pay respects to the soccer legend.
Benedict made history in 2013 when he became the first pope to resign since the 1400s.
Pelé was considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time, leading Brazil to World Cup wins in 1958, 1962 and 1970.
Both men rose from humble beginnings—Pelé grew up in poverty in Brazil, while Benedict’s family suffered harassment during his youth in Germany due to their opposition to the Nazi government.
A mass for Pelé and his burial are set for Tuesday, while Benedict’s funeral will take place Thursday.
Surprising Fact
Another notable death occurred Friday, when American journalist Barbara Walters died at age 93.