African National Congress struggle hero Walter Sisulu was buried in Croesus Cemetery in Newclare, Johannesburg on Saturday, after a moving ceremony at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.
The Reverend Mvume Dandala oversaw proceedings of the graveside service.
Only the family and VIPs were allowed into the cemetery, which was cordoned off by security forces. The crowd at Orlando Stadium watched the proceedings on big-screen TV.
After the final blessing, Sisulu's coffin, which had travelled to the cemetery on a gun carriage, was lowered into the grave while the congregation stood and a trumpeter played the last post.
The flag which had draped the coffin was presented to Sisulu's widow, Albertina, by a senior army officer.
The ANC flag, which had previously draped the coffin at the Sisulu home, was also presented to Albertina Sisulu.
The first sand and flower petals were poured into the grave by immediate family and close friends while an SA Police Service choir sang in the background.
Earlier, the service at the packed 30 000-seat stadium was attended by a host of VIPs and dignitaries that included President Thabo Mbeki, Deputy President Jacob Zuma and former presidents Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk.
Also present were, among others, the heads of state of Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Mozambique and Malawi, as well as several former heads of state, including Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia and Jerry Rawlings of Ghana.
Gauteng Premier Mbazima Shilowa and Eastern Cape Premier Makhenkesi Stofile shared the duties of master of ceremonies while Johannesburg Mayor Amos Masondo welcomed the dignitaries.
The speakers included Mbeki, Mandela, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who delivered the sermon.
The service was preceded by a private prayer service at the nearby Sisulu family home.
Dozens of local and foreign media representatives were there to record the event.
Sisulu died at his home in Linden, Johannesburg on May 5. He was one of many ANC leaders who fought for the end of apartheid and spent years in prison with Mandela during the struggle.
He would have turned 91 on Sunday - the day after his burial. - Sapa