The Vatican has closed the Sistine Chapel as Cardinals prepare to elect the next Pope following the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away at age 88. A period of nine days of mourning is currently underway, with the conclave expected to start between May 5 and May 10. The Cardinals will conduct their secret voting process in the chapel, known for its stunning Michelangelo frescoes.
Tourists visiting the chapel shared their excitement about being among the last to see it before the closure. The election process aims to be guided by the Holy Spirit, with the new Pope expected to either continue Francis’ reforms focused on the poor or revert to more conservative traditions. The conclave ensures secrecy through a ritual that includes Latin chants and the burning of ballots, with smoke signals indicating the election’s outcome—black smoke for no decision and white smoke when a new Pope is elected.
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