German birthplace of Benedict XVI opens to mark death
The birthplace of the former pope Benedict XVI in Marktl am Inn in Bavaria, opened its doors on Saturday to mark his death.
The house, which serves as a small museum about the life of the late German pope, is usually closed during the winter, but will be open Saturday and Sunday exceptionally.
In the room where Joseph Ratzinger was born on April 16, 1927, candles were burning and a white rose stood on a black cloth. A book of condolences was displayed in the foyer.
READ ALSO: German intelligence sees growing activity by Russian secret services
People lit candles on the town’s market square, reported Franz Haringer, the theological director of Benedict XVI’s birthplace.
“What I remember most is his ability to express faith in simple and clear words – and also his life theme: faith and thinking, faith and reason: as a follower of religion, I don’t have to switch off my thinking,” Haringer said.