The eyes of the world are on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. So far, the faithful have only seen black smoke and... a white seagull that perched on the chapel's roof and unexpectedly became a favourite among internet users.

The eyes of the world are on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. So far, the faithful have only seen black smoke and... a white seagull that perched on the temple's roof, unexpectedly becoming a favorite among internet users.

The cardinals, who broke for lunch and will reconvene this afternoon, are expected to continue casting ballots at the Vatican until one among them receives at least two-thirds of the vote. The release of white smoke, or fumata bianca in Italian, will signify that they've elected a pope, as will the ringing of the bells of St. Peter's Basilica.

Some have watched it in the cinema,” one cleric involved said, adding that the movie accurately portrays how the conclave works.

Thousands in Vatican Square cheered as white smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling that a new pope has been chosen.

Cardinals meet to elect Pope Francis’ successor—will the Church continue his inclusive legacy or return to a more conservative path?