Rome is busily preparing for the Colosseum Way of the Cross procession, presided over by Pope Francis.

Buses and other traffic were being re-routed away from the ancient Roman arena for the Good Friday night ritual, which draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists.

This year's meditations, to be read aloud during the torchlight procession, were composed by an Italian nun, Eugenia Bonetti, who works to rescue migrants and other women forced into prostitution on Italy's streets by human traffickers.

Francis has frequently championed the welfare of migrants.

Before heading to the Colosseum, where a lightweight crucifix is carried by faithful, Francis will attend an early evening solemn prayer service at the Vatican focusing on the suffering of Jesus before his death by crucifixion.