The papal conclave will begin 15-20 days after the death of pope Francis. The closed-door assembly of the College of Cardinals – limited to 120 electors under current regulations – will be locked inside the Sistine Chapel, and start proceedings with a mass.
In the afternoon a first ballot will be held. After each round, the ballots are burned. Black smoke signals an inconclusive vote; white smoke announces to the world that a new Pope has been chosen.
