The Vatican is closing the Sistine Chapel to the public as part of its preparations for the the conclave to elect the next pope after the death of Pope Francis.

The Sistine Chapel is now closed to the public ahead of the papal conclave that will select the next pope after the death of Pope Francis.

It is one of the wonders of the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. But those now in Rome hoping to admire the Sistine Chapel will not get their fix of its monumental Michelangelo frescoes.