Post date: Feb 05, 2012 3:46:3 PM
The pontiff expressed appreciation for the blanket of snow which had fallen on the Vatican earlier, but added he was ready for warmer temperatures.
"I wish you all a good Sunday. The snow is beautiful but let's hope that spring will come soon. Have a good Sunday!" -- Pope Benedict, dressed in a white overcoat, told pilgrims after conducting Angelus.
Heavy snowfall hit Rome on Friday and Saturday (February 3-4) as Italy and Vatican have been gripped by chilly winter weather.
As the sun came out on Sunday morning, statues, fountains and rooftops in St. Peter's Square still nestled under snow.
The rare, thick snow blanketed the ancient monuments for the first time in 27 years.
Pope Benedict conducts Angelus in Vatican, which has been blanketed by snow for the first time in nearly three decades.
VATICAN CITY, VATICAN (FEBRUARY 5, 2012) (CTV) - Pope Benedict addressed pilgrims gathered for Angelus on a snow-covered St. Peter's Square on Sunday (February 5).