The famed "hot priest" calendar from Rome, renowned for featuring attractive clerics, has been revealed by its photographer to have few actual priests as models.

Piero Pazzi, responsible for the A4-sized Calendario Romano (Roman Calendar) since 2003, disclosed to Italian newspaper Il Post that the calendar's primary aim was to symbolize Rome's connection to the Vatican and the Catholic Church.

The calendar has developed a cult-like status over the years, with estimates suggesting that thousands are sold every year.

Despite the widely circulated images of cassock-clad men, Pazzi admitted that not all were genuine priests, with some not even being Italian.

Among the revelations is that Giovanni Galizia, who has graced the calendar's cover and resembles Hollywood star Matt Damon, is not a priest.

Galizia, now 36 and working as a flight attendant, clarified in an interview that he never harboured modelling ambitions and receives no royalties from the calendar's sales.

Contrary to rumours, Pazzi clarified that the Vatican has never issued any warnings or complaints against the calendar.

Additionally, he refuted claims that proceeds support the SNAP charity, assisting Church abuse victims.

Pazzi confessed to not knowing many models personally, having photographed some randomly on the streets.

He remains oblivious to sales figures, emphasizing his focus on the artistic rather than administrative aspects of the calendar's production.

Despite controversies, interest in the calendar persists, indicating its enduring popularity.