“We carry in our hearts the pain of the acts of terrorism that in these last days have caused numerous victims.”

The pope denounced the attack as “a grave offence against the Creator.”

A van drove into a pedestrian zone killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 80 others.

After reciting the Angelus prayer on the feast of the Assumption, the pope asked Mary to obtain "for everyone consolation and a future of serenity and harmony."

The reports were sourced to a fake Facebook page.

"Faith is not an escape from life's problems but sustains it along the journey and gives it meaning," Pope Francis said.