Vatican City (AFP) - An activist from the feminist group Femen bared her breasts in St Peter's Square on Christmas day and rushed the Nativity scene, grabbing the Baby Jesus figurine.

Vatican police were quick to arrest the blonde activist on Thursday, who had the words "God Is Woman" daubed on her chest.

Although the incident occurred well after Pope Francis delivered his Christmas message from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, thousands of pilgrims were still in the famous square.