Rome, 7 May 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The conclave to elect the new pope has begun in the Vatican, as the door to the Sistine Chapel closed on Wednesday behind the 133 cardinals who will now choose the successor to the late pope Francis.

The door of the historic chapel closed at precisely 5:46 pm (1546 GMT) following the Latin call "extra omnes!" (everyone out), which signalled that all but the men in red had to leave the chapel.

The announcement of the 267th pope in the 2,000 years of Church history may take some time. It is widely expected that the decision will be made by the end of this week, though this is not guaranteed.

Until then, the rest of the world will rely on smoke signals from the chimney on the chapel's roof. Black smoke indicates no decision has been made, while white smoke signifies the election of a new pope. The first smoke will likely be seen after 7 pm on Wednesday.

Photo: epa