Papal conclave begins on Wednesday with 133 cardinals set to vote

The papal conclave to choose the next pope begins on Wednesday at the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

One hundred-33 cardinals from 70 countries the largest and most diverse gathering in history will vote under strict secrecy.

To be elected a candidate must secure at least 89 votes a two-thirds majority.

The result of each vote will be revealed through smoke rising from the chapel's chimney white for a new pope black for no result.

Pope Francis was elected in two days back in 2013.