Religion

With Pope Francis laid to rest, all eyes turn now to the conclave, the secretive meeting of cardinals set to convene within days to elect a new head of the Catholic Church. Mourners were permitted to visit his tomb for the first time Sunday, a day after an estimated 400,000 people, including world leaders, turned out for the Argentine's funeral at the Vatican and burial in Rome.  The crowds were a testament to the popularity of Francis, an energetic reformer who championed the poorest and most vulnerable.

Heads of state are expected for the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday in St. Peter’s Square while his body will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday to lie in state for the Catholic faithful to pay their respects to the Argentine Pontiff remembered for his humble style, concern for the poor and insistent prayers for peace. The death of Pope Francis on 21 April aged 88 triggered a period of mourning in the Catholic Church, but also kick-started the race for his successor. Whether diplomats, theologians, mediators or Vatican insiders, here are 15 cardinals who are among the potential favourites to become the next pope, known as the "papabili", divided by region.