The columned colonnade of St Peter’s Square - leading to the heart of the Catholic Church and the spectacular Basilica - has looked different during Pope Francis’ papacy.

Francis, a divisive character known to be less conservative than many of his predecessors, is said to have done more than any Pope in living memory for the homeless. Rosary prayers echo from the steps of the Basilica each night in Frances’ honour, wherethousands turn upand will him to recover from the double pneumoniathat has left him hospitalised since February 14.