White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney today, signalling the election of a new Pope — sending waves of jubilation through St Peter’s Square.
Thousands of emotional Catholics cried, cheered, and waved flags as centuries-old tradition unfolded in dramatic style. After just one full day of Conclave deliberations by 133 cardinals, the sacred chimney finally puffed its iconic white smoke at 5:33 PM local time — confirming the 267th Pope has been chosen.
The bells of St Peter’s Basilica rang out triumphantly as chants of “Viva il Papa!” echoed around the square, where more than 45,000 pilgrims and tourists had gathered.
The identity of the new Holy Father remains under wraps for now. He is currently in the Room of Tears — a small chamber beside the Sistine Chapel where he dons papal vestments before making his first appearance.
The world will soon hear the iconic Latin declaration “Habemus Papam” (We have a Pope!) followed by his name and chosen papal title, expected to be delivered by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, unless he is the man chosen himself.
The election ends an emotional period of mourning and reflection following the death of Pope Francis, whose progressive papacy transformed many aspects of the modern Catholic Church.
Among frontrunners speculated for the role were Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Cardinal Peter Erdo, and Cardinal Luis Tagle — but Vatican insiders say it could be a surprise pick.
The new Pope will immediately assume spiritual leadership of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, facing challenges such as sexual abuse scandals, declining church attendance in the West, and growing influence of conservative factions within the Church.
