at order to be near this icon, Pope Francis desires to be buried at the Rome Basilica

In order to be close to his beloved Madonna symbol, Pope Francis has said that he would want to be buried in the St. Mary Major basilica in Rome rather than in the Vatican grottoes like the former popes.

In addition, Francis—who turns 87 on Sunday—said that despite many health concerns this year, he never considered leaving. He said that he had a definite trip to Belgium for the next year and that he was considering trips to Argentina and Polynesia.

Speaking to N about the Mexican broadcaster Televisa, Francis said, “It is true that all journeys are now all rethought.” “They can be completed if they are nearby. They are reconsidered if they are further away. There are boundaries.

It was Francis’ first interview since his most recent episode of severe bronchitis, which resulted in the cancelation of his travel to Dubai for the U.N. climate summit this month. Francis, who had a portion of one lung removed when he was younger, seemed well and reported that he was feeling well.

Although the pope’s position is unassumable, Francis reiterated that he must be ready to step down at any time. “When the time comes, I ask the Lord to tell me when enough is enough,” he said.

As Pope Benedict XVI said in 2013, Francis has previously stated that he would like to live at a retired priest’s house outside of the Vatican in Rome. Francis has always placed a strong emphasis on his duty as Rome’s bishop and is especially devoted to an image of the Virgin Mary that is housed in the St. Mary Major basilica, which is close to the city’s major train station.

For example, Francis visits the basilica after each trip and prays in front of the painting known as Salus populi Romani, or “Salvation of the people of Rome,” a Byzantine-style work that depicts Mary wearing a blue gown and clutching a golden book that is jeweled.

Francis said, “It’s my great devotion,” and mentioned that he had already made up his mind to be buried close by in the basilica. “Everything is ready at this location.”