A thousand-year-old prophecy has resurfaced following the death of Pope Francis, predicting the next Pope.
Pope Francis died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed, just hours after a hoped-for Easter Sunday appearance at St Peter’s Square.
Francis’ passing has reignited speculation of the prophecy that “Peter the Roman” will lead the Catholic Church during a time of great turmoil – especially as three top candidates to replace him share the name Peter.
While scholars debate the prophecy’s authenticity, its eerie accuracy about past popes and chilling warnings for humanity continue to stir fascination.
The 12th-century “Prophecy of the Popes” claims Judgment Day will follow the reign of this final pope, with some believers pointing to 2027 as the prophesied end of days.
The Church will begin choosing the next pontiff in a conclave set to take place within the coming weeks.