Bells ring at Vatican, signaling the election of a pope

The successor to John Paul II has been elected, Vatican Radio announced Tuesday evening. Bells chimed at St. Peter's Basilica and flag-waving crowds in the square chanted: "Viva il Papa!" or "Long live the pope!"

The bells rang after a confusing smoke signal that Vatican Radio initially suggested was black but then declared was too difficult to call. White smoke is used to announce a pope's election to the world.

AP