Pope Francis Makes Surprise Visit To Site Of Devastating Italy Earthquake

VATICAN CITY (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Pope Francis has made a surprise visit to the site of the devastating August earthquake in central Italy.

The Vatican said the pope arrived in Amatrice Tuesday morning, accompanied by the bishop of Rieti, and started his tour at the school. He then planned to visit the hardest-hit area of the town, which remains largely closed due to security concerns.

PHOTOS: Pope Francis Visits Site Of Italy Earthquake | Photos: Italy Earthquake

"I wish to bring the consolation of the Lord Jesus, with the maternal love and embrace of the entire Church, to all those affected by the earthquake in Central Italy," Pope Francis said in a video posted to his official Instagram page on Tuesday.

Francis had made clear his intentions to visit the quake-stricken zone but without announcing a date. He indicated that he wanted to go alone "to be close to the people.''

Francis said he didn't visit sooner because he didn't "want to be a nuisance."

The devastating earthquake rattled central Italy in late August, destroying local villages and killing nearly 300 people.

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