LONDON -- Pope Francis is expected on Sunday to make his first public appearance since being hospitalised in Rome more than five weeks ago.

Officials at Gemelli Hospital, where the 88-year-old pope has been undergoing treatment after being diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, said they were preparing for the pope to appear in a window. He's expected to briefly greet the gathered crowd and to offer a blessing.

The area near the entrance of the hospital was filling up with people on Sunday morning. People were also flooding into St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, where they'll be able watch the pope's greeting via large TV screens.

After Francis' appearance at the hospital, he's expected to leave the facility by car and return to the Vatican.

The 88-year-old pontiff has been in stable condition for the past two weeks, according to the Vatican.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.