Pope to celebrate mass in Cuba's Revolution Square

The Cuban authorities have unveiled a huge structure in the shape of a mitre to welcome the arrival of the Pope.

Pope Benedict XVI was due to arrive in Santiago de Cuba following his trip to Mexico, where he spoke out against the evils of drug cartels, and charmed the crowds by donning a sombrero for his popemobile tour.

He will celebrate Mass in Revolution Square in Santiago and is expected to make a speech urging residents of the Communist-run country to seek salvation in faith.

Young Roman Catholics held a prayer vigil last night in anticipation, and workers made the finishing touches to the stage.

Following the Mass, the Pope will pray at the nearby sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba’s patron saint, before heading to Havana, where he will meet Cuban President Raul Castro and presumably his brother, Fidel.