Ace Breaking News – Live: Eventually, you get to the security screening, and after that, it’s pretty straightforward. But how long it takes to reach that point is an open-ended question going around Rome right now.

Pope Francis has been lying in state since Wednesday morning, local time.

Since that moment, there have been long queues in and around St Peter’s Basilica, in Vatican City, where people are trying to get a glimpse of his body. And, trust me, it is only a glimpse.

How long you have to line up depends on what time of the day you go. Some people have waited about four hours, while others — usually those who go after midnight — have reported standing in line for around 60 minutes.

Once you’re through the airport-style security screening, it’s a strange feeling, because at the time I went on early Friday morning, you are in St Peter’s Square, and it’s practically empty.

That’s because access has been restricted at certain times as crowds get bigger and bigger.

You file through a special route that had, up until the past few days, been used by pilgrims taking part in the church’s jubilee year festivities.

For the moment, however, it’s been taken over by those wanting to see Pope Francis lying in state.

After walking up the steps and in to St Peter’s Basilica, the first thing that struck me was how quiet it was.

It’s quite a long walk to the area where the Pope’s body is lying.

Previous pontiffs have had their body in a glass case, but Pope Francis requested to be placed in an open casket.

@acenewsservices

Physically, it makes him more difficult to see, but it certainly fits with his more pared-back style he espoused as leader of the Catholic Church.

It takes a minute or two reach his body from the basilica’s entrance, but by the time you’re at a place where you can actually see the Pope lying in state, I only got about five seconds.

Staff move you on quite quickly.

When I was there, a lot of people around me were taking photos and using their phones. That’s something frowned upon by the Vatican, so I didn’t do it.

There’s also been a wealth of official pictures of his body released, so it seemed unnecessary.

Guards ask people to keep moving, and politely tell people not to take pictures.

At Sterling Publishing & Media Service Agency, we prioritise transparency and accountability in all our operations. We wish to clarify that we are not responsible for any external content, hyperlinks, or costs associated with our services. Nevertheless, we remain committed to delivering outstanding services and greatly value your continued support. Thank you for your trust in us.