Pope Francis's coffin was carried into St Peter's Basilica to lie in state during the mourning period following his death on Monday.

Dramatic footage shows the pontiff's casket solemnly being brought to the church in Vatican City. His remains will be on display for three days, from Wednesday to Friday.

Pope Francis, whose real name is Jorge Bergoglio, was recently hospitalised for pneumonia in both lungs. He spent 38 days being treated at the Gemelli hospital in Rome before being discharged on March 23.

The pontiff made a final public appearance at the Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing at the age of 88.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, in a statement published by the Vatican on the messaging app Telegram, said: 'Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

'This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.

'His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.'

A papal funeral will be held, after which senior Catholic leaders known as the College of Cardinals will elect a new Pope.