Pele mausoleum opens to the public as fans flock to visit Brazilian legend's coffin

The three-time World Cup winner passed away at the age of 82 in December following a battle with colon cancer.

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And five months on from his funeral, his adoring supporters can now visit his coffin in Santos - who he represented between 1956-1974.

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A tomb truly fit for a king, Pele was laid to rest in a golden casket, which is located in the world's tallest cemetery.

And the public can now visit his mausoleum on the second floor of the 14-storey tall Ecumenical Memorial Cemetery.

Two golden life-sized statues of Pele welcome visitors by the door, where they stand next to Brazil and Santos flags.

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Inside, fans may be forgiven in thinking they are walking out onto a football pitch with artificial grass laid out on the floor.

His golden coffin is displayed in the middle of a 200-square-meter room, with images of fans plastered on the walls, with a soundtrack of cheering played in the background.

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Memorable moments from Pele's career are also on show, which includes black etchings of his 1,000th goal and his trademark raised-fist celebration.

Pele's son, Edinho, who was present at the opening ceremony told news outlet G1: "This was made with a lot of love by people who knew him and lived with him.

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"So it has the essence of what he was. It is very noble, very simple and pleasant."

In a separate interview Citizen Digital, he said: "We're very proud and happy at all the affection and reverence that's kept pouring in."

Businessman Ronaldo Rodrigues, who was one of the first in line to visit, remarked: "It surpassed my expectations. It's a really beautiful place.

"I hope lots of tourists will come visit and get to know a little about Pele's story, what he represented for Santos, Brazil and the entire world."

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Only 60 fans can visit Pele's tomb a day, with guests having to use a sign-up form on the cemetery's website.