Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, a day after appearing in St Peter's Square on Easter Eve.

"Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Pope Francis," Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement released by the Vatican on Telegram.

"This morning at 7:35 a.m. the Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis, returned to the Father's house.

"His whole life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church."

Pope Francis' death came just a day after he delighted Vatican worshippers by appearing on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, despite still recovering from a serious illness.

Pope Francis came close to death twice earlier this year while suffering from bilateral pneumonia. He spent 38 days in hospital before being released on March 23.

On Sunday (20.04) he wished the crowds in St Peter's Square "Happy Easter" while waving his hand, and in his traditional benediction "Urbi et Orbi" ("To the city and the world") he called for freedom of thought and tolerance. | BGNES