An anti-pornography Austrian activist is demanding from officials in the Alpine city of Innsbruck the immediate removal of a large crucifix bearing a sculpture of a naked Jesus Christ.

A local radio station reported that Martin Humer is pressuring authorities to remove the crucifix from a public square where it has been displayed for 20 years.

The 82-year-old former photographer, also warned that will bring along 100 supporters in a protest rally on Friday.

However, Mayor Hilde Zach dismissed Humer's demand standing firm not to remove the crucifix, insisting it is a work of art and is in no way pornographic.

In 2006, Humer and an accomplice was charged with vandalism for defacing the "Homage to Mozart" statue with red and green enamel and covering it with white feathers.