A large painting has appeared on a building near the Vatican showing Pope Francis taking off into the air, his right fist clenched ahead of him in classic Superman style.
Pope Francis as Superman as depicted by Italian street artist Maupal near the Vatican. Photo: AFP
His white cape and cross flutter in the breeze and in his left hand he carries a black briefcase bearing the word "valores," Spanish for values.
A scarf bearing the blue and red colours of his favourite Argentine soccer club, San Lorenzo, emerges from the bag.
But unlike Superman, who disguises himself as reporter Clark Kent, Francis is clearly identifiable and flies with his glasses on.
Superman fought a "never-ending battle" for truth and justice. Francis has vowed to eliminate corruption in the Vatican and bring the Catholic Church closer to the poor.
The artwork, which has been pasted to the wall, is signed "Maupal 2014".
