Pope marks 12th anniversary of papacy in hospital but with condition improving

The Vatican has not said how the anniversary of his election as the 266th pope might be commemorated (Francisco Seco/AP)

Pope Francis was marking the 12th anniversary of his papacy on Thursday with increasingly positive medical updates four weeks after being admitted to hospital.

The pope, who is being treated for double pneumonia, spent another tranquil night, the Vatican said in its brief morning statement.