Proof McDonald's is dominating the world as it opens at controversial new location
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A McDonald's has opened in the Vatican. It's open seven days a week, 6.30am to 11pm.
The restaurant is just metres away from St Peter's Square in a Vatican-owned building, 100 yards from the holy state, home of the Pope. McDonald's openings are a common thing – but this one has caused a bit of fuss.
The branch, which went unannounced by the company, and which has seen opposition from locals and members of the Catholic church, has been aptly dubbed "McVatican".
It was first reported by the Catholic Press Agency , but went unreported official Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano .
The Pope has not commented on the new McDonald's
(Photo: Getty Images)
According to Rome's La Repubblica newspaper, the Vatican will receive a monthly rent of 30,000 euros, and is situated on the ground floor of the building. Some cardinals – who say they weren't consulted on the McDonald's – live directly above the restaurant.
Cardinal Elio Sgreccia, president emeritus of the Pontifical Academy for Life, said that the 5,800 square feet McDoanld's was "aberrant" and "a perversion."
Sgreccia added that he believes no price is high enough to justify the "disgrace" of selling "unhealthy" food "that I would never eat".
"I repeat, selling mega-sandwiches in Borgo Pio is a disgrace," he said. "The area's needy ... and suffering, as the Holy Father teaches."
There have been protests outside the branch
The Vatican's real estate is controlled by the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See. It says it doesn't understand the commotion.
It's worth noting that there are two other McDonald's close to the Vatican. What makes this one different is that the building is owned by the state. There's a Burger King nearby too.
Mirror Online has contacted McDonald's for comment.