- White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the election of a new pope.
- Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupt in cheers as Vatican bells confirm the moment
- Official announcement of the new pontiff, introduced with "Habemus Papam!", expected shortly
White smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel today, signaling that the College of Cardinals has elected a new pope to lead the Catholic Church. The long-anticipated signal came shortly after 6:00 PM local time, drawing jubilant cheers from thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
The white smoke, known as fumata bianca, traditionally marks the successful conclusion of a papal conclave. The sight of it means the required two-thirds majority has been reached among the cardinal electors, who have been meeting in secrecy since Tuesday following the resignation of Pope Francis earlier this year.
Bells of St. Peter’s Basilica pealed moments later, confirming the smoke’s significance.
Speculation now turns to the identity of the newly elected pontiff, who will be introduced to the world from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica under the iconic declaration: "Habemus Papam!" ("We have a pope!"). Vatican officials are expected to make the announcement shortly.
This marks a historic moment for the global Catholic community, as the Church turns a new chapter in its centuries-long history.
