Cardinals in the Vatican have entered a period of silence ahead of the closed conclave in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis.

As cardinals gathered at the church, some predicted that the conclave, starting Wednesday, would be brief, based on various indications. To elect a pope, a cardinal must secure two-thirds of the votes.

The first ballot will take place on the first day, followed by four ballots each day.

Upon the election of a new pope, white smoke will be released from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.