The Pope has arrived at Kalkara, where a large crowd of flag-waving people had been waiting for hours to make him welcome.

Another large crowd also greeted the Pope in Paola, where people cheered, sang hymns and threw confetti .

The Pope boarded the catamaran San Pawl for his crossing to the Valletta Waterfront and stood near the bridge waving at the crowd.

He will sit on a chair placed on a red carpet in front of the bridge during the crossing.

Meanwhile, gates have been closed at the Valletta Waterfront because the place is full. Officials said that they could not allow more people in because of safety considerations. They were opened later when empty pockets inside were filled up creating space at the back.

A concert is currently being held at the waterfront ahead of the Pope's visit. Senior church leaders have also arrived and taken their places.