McDonald's opens in building owned by Vatican, outrage ensues

On Friday, a McDonald's franchise opened near Vatican City's St. Peter's Square, sparking outrage among many, reports NBC News.

Though it joins a number of fast food outposts already in the area, this particular one is housed in a building owned by the Vatican, notes the New York Daily News.

Among the vocal critics of the eatery is Cardinal Elio Sgreccia, who, in October, spoke with 'La Repubblica' about the plan to rent space to the fast food giant.

He called it "aberrant," a "disgrace," and "a perversion."

Cardinal Sgreccia also commented, "Rather it would be appropriate to use those spaces for activities in defense of the area's needy, hospitality spaces, reception and aid for those suffering as the Holy Father teaches."

McDonald's is paying roughly $30,000 a month to occupy the space.

Though there have been suggestions of a scandal, Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, the president of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See,told the press that "everything was done within the law, and that nothing is done that will go against the rules in force, the tradition and the interests of the Holy See."

See photos of the controversial McDonald's: