ATHENS — Crowds of people arrived at the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral's chapel for a second day to pay their final respects to the late composer Mikis Theodorakis, whose body lies in state there until Wednesday afternoon.

People of all ages, often holding a red rose or a carnation, waited their turn patiently to briefly touch the coffin which nests Greece's luminary, and while there think farewell to him.

The public can visit until 14:00 on the last day Wednesday, when a farewell ceremony will be held at 15:00 to wrap up the three-day service at the chapel.

Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Greece Dimitris Koutsoubas will speak at this farewell ceremony.

Later on Wednesday, Theodorakis will be transferred by ship to his home village of Galata in Chania, Crete, according to his final wishes. His funeral will be held there at 13:00 on Thursday, followed by his burial.

Theodorakis passed away on Thursday, September 2 at the age of 96.