Black smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, signalling that the College of Cardinals has failed to elect a new pope in its latest round of voting.
The smoke, a traditional symbol used during a papal conclave, indicates that no candidate has yet received the required two-thirds majority vote needed to succeed the late Pope Francis.
Cardinals from around the world, currently gathered in Vatican City, will remain sequestered and without outside communication until a decision is reached.
Voting will resume on Thursday with additional rounds expected if no agreement is made.
This marks the first day of voting since the conclave formally began, and follows solemn rituals and oaths of secrecy undertaken by the cardinals before entering the chapel.
The process will continue in strict confidentiality, as the world watches for white smoke – the signal of a newly elected pontiff.
