Overview

• The papal conclave, a centuries-old tradition, begins today as cardinals under 80 convene at the Vatican to elect Pope Francis's successor.
• The process starts with a special Mass, after which the cardinals will be locked in the Sistine Chapel, cut off from all outside communication.
• Voting requires a two-thirds majority, with up to 30 ballots permitted before a simple majority can decide the outcome.
• Ballots are burned after each round, with black smoke signaling an inconclusive vote and white smoke announcing the election of a new pope.
• Once elected, the new pope will choose a papal name and be introduced to the world with the proclamation 'Habemus Papam' from St. Peter’s Basilica.