9 h. ago Black smoke billows from Vatican on second round of voting, no pope elected

Thousands of people have been gathering in St Peter’s Square to witness the time-honoured tradition which signified that no candidate had garnered the two-thirds majority needed to become the new pope.

Events

25 h. ago First conclave vote to elect new pope fails as black smoke emerges

More than 45,000 people gathered in St Peter’s Square to witness the time-honoured tradition which signified that no candidate had garnered the two-thirds majority needed to become the new pope.

Events

3 d. ago Cardinals arrive in Rome ahead of conclave to elect new pope

Cardinals who will take part in the conclave to elect a new pope have all now arrived in Rome.

Politics

4 d. ago Chimney up, Sistine Chapel primped as cardinals prepare to elect next pope

The complex and secretive election process is set to begin this week, following the death of Pope Francis.

Politics

1 week ago Vatican sets date for conclave to elect new pope following death of Francis

Roman Catholic cardinals will meet from May 7 in a secret conclave to elect the church’s new leader.

Events

2 w. ago Cardinals rush to Rome to prepare for Pope’s funeral and conclave

As church bells tolled across Rome to mark Pope Francis’s death, cardinals from across the world began making their way to the Vatican and will hold their first meeting within hours.

Politics