Topless Femen protesters shocked tourists outside the Vatican this week when they performed lewd acts with crucifixes in an apparent protest against the Pope.

The three women reportedly simulated anal sex with the crucifixes wearing nothing but ankleboots, miniskirts and flowers in their hair, reports the AFP news agency.  Two of the women had "Keep it Inside" written on their backs, taken to imply that the Pope should stay out of politics.

As tourists looked on, police officers proceeded to cover their chests with coats and remove them from St Peter's Square. 

The protest is believed to have been related to a forthcoming visit by the Pope to the European Parliament in Strasbourg this month. 

It is not the first time Femen protesters have turned up at St Peter's Square.  Last month they staged a protest there against the Catholic Church's position on homosexuality. 

Femen activists have also previously targeted Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, using it as the backdrop for a protest that coincided with the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.  

It was not clear whether the women would face charges for their latest stunt outside the Vatican.