Rome, 25 February 2025 (dpa/MIA) - Pope Francis "rested well" during his 11th night in hospital in Rome, the Holy See said on Tuesday.

Despite a slightly improved condition, the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church remains in a critical condition.

Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin visited the pope again on Tuesday. According to the Vatican, the two discussed beatifications and canonizations.

Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital with a respiratory infection and was later diagnosed with double pneumonia. He first caught the infection in mid-December.

At 12 days, the stay marks his longest ever in hospital and there is so far no date set for his release.

On Sunday, a statement said he had also developed a slight kidney insufficiency, though the Vatican said this is no cause for concern. The development followed an acute breathing crisis on Saturday, during which he was given oxygen.

Thousands of believers from around the world participated in a rosary prayer for the pope's recovery on Monday, which is to be held nightly.

More than two dozen cardinals took part in the prayer service from St Peter's Square, led by Parolin.

"For 2,000 years the Christian people have prayed for the pope when he was in danger or sick," Parolin said during the prayer.

As secretary of state, Parolin is responsible for the Vatican's diplomacy. His name is also repeatedly mentioned when it comes to Francis's successor.

Ahead of the rosary prayer, the pope had thanked people in a written message for their support.

The Argentinian, who is the second oldest pope in history, has led the Catholic Church since March 2013. His predecessor, Benedict XVI, unexpectedly resigned and lived a secluded life in the Vatican until his death at the end of 2022.