Nearly a week after his return from Brazil, Rio de Janeiro and young people were still in Pope Francis's thoughts as he conducted the Angelus in St Peter's Square.

The weekly prayer marked Pope Francis's first public appearance since he returned to Rome on Monday from Rio, where he took part in the Catholic Youth Day celebrations.

"There are so many young people in the square today, it seems like Rio de Janeiro!" the Pope told the excited crowds gathered in the square.

He expressed his gratitude to everyone taking part and organising the Brazilian trip but stressed that the enthusiasm should not be limited to the event itself.

To the sound of loud cheers, Pope Francis thanked the crowds gathered under the sweltering Roman heat and temperatures of nearly 40 degrees Celsius.

In addition to his now trademark "good Sunday and good lunch" greeting, the Pope also wished the pilgrims a "good month of August".

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