The death of Pope Francis has set off a series of centuries-old rites and traditions during the interregnum, which begins upon the pontiff's passing and ends with the election of his successor. Per Catholic tradition, Pope Francis must be buried between four and six days after his death, while the official mourning period is observed for nine days.

Pope Francis, 88, died after suffering a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure just a day after delivering an Easter blessing and carrying out a Popemobile tour through a cheering crowd in St Peter’s Square. The period between a pope's death and a new pope's election is known as Sede Vacante. The process has undergone many changes, with the current procedure receiving modern updates as recently as 2013. Even with these changes, the essential ritual has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

How is a new Pope chosen?

Between 15 and 20 days after the Pope’s death, cardinals aged under 80 arrive at the Vatican to begin the papal conclave, a secretive election process held to determine a successor.

There are currently 135 Catholic cardinals eligible to vote.

Cardinals must vote in secret ballots until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority. The College of Cardinals may cast as many as four ballots in a single day. After each vote, the ballots are burned and smoke is released from the Sistine Chapel's chimney as a signal to the throngs holding vigil in St. Peter's Square.

Black smoke - fumata nera in Italian - indicates an inconclusive vote, while white smoke - fumata bianca - will signify that a new pope has been elected.

Once a Pope is elected, the dean of the cardinals asks him if he accepts his election, and he is instructed to choose a name.

The papal conclave ends when the new pope disbands it, traditionally after addressing the body of cardinals.

How much is the Pope paid?

The Pope does not receive a salary, however, they do have all travel expenses and living arrangements paid for by the Vatican.

The Pope lives in Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world. It is surrounded by the Italian capital, Rome.

Pope Francis' institutional privileges included an official residence, five cars, and international paid for. However, Pope Francis' net worth was far less than that of other Popes have amassed.

Marca claims that Pope Francis' net worth is valued at £11.9 million ($16 million).