The 133 cardinals, gathered in conclave since last night, have elected a new Pope. White smoke has just billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, signalling the decision.
Moments after the smoke, the bells of St Peter’s Basilica rang out across the square. All eyes then turned to the balcony, awaiting the iconic announcement “Habemus papam”, followed by the new Pope’s first blessing: “Urbi et Orbi” — to the city and the world. The new pontiff was expected to appear within the hour.
