VATICAN
Pope Benedict XVI officially left his post.
Pope Benedict XVI ended his eight-year pontificate at 20.00 hours (21.00 hours Turkish local time) on Thursday.
Bells rang in Castel Gandolfo as Pope Benedict XVI surrendered his "fisherman's ring" at 20.00 hours.
Meanwhile, the Vatican announced "Seda Vacante" meaning the Pope's position is now vacant.
Pope Benedict XVI has officially resigned on Thursday saying that he will now be "a pilgrim".
The conclave of 115 cardinals will meet at the Vatican on Monday to start plans for the election of the new pope.
