It’s a historic week in Rome as 133 cardinals from around the world gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Pope, following the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
The conclave officially kicked off on Tuesday, 7th May, and it’s already one for the books — the most globally diverse gathering of cardinals ever, with representatives from 71 countries.
In classic Vatican style, the proceedings are steeped in tradition and top-tier secrecy. Once inside, the cardinals are completely cut off from the outside world. No phones, no internet, no sneaky DMs — just prayers, ballots and a whole lot of whispering in Latin.
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Each day, they vote in rounds, with the famous chimney letting the world know how it's going. Black smoke? No decision. White smoke? We have a new pope.
Front-runners for the role include names from Italy, the Philippines, and the United States, though as always, anything can happen behind those closed chapel doors.
The whole world is watching as the Catholic Church prepares for its next chapter. We’ll be keeping our eyes on the Vatican roof — because when that white smoke appears, history will be made once again.
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