What happens when Pope Francis dies - and how the next pope is chosen

With Pope Francis remaining in a critical condition in hospital, millions of Catholics are praying that he will recover.

The Vatican offered hope today by saying there has been a 'slight improvement' in the condition of the Pontiff, who was admitted on Valentine's Day with an infection that developed into pneumonia in both lungs.

But the plight of the Argentine has prompted discussion about what will happen when the worst news does come.

After the death of a pope, their funeral will take place a maximum of six days later, during which time their body lies in state in St Peter's Basilica.

The Conclave - where cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican to choose a successor - will not happen for at least 15 days from the day of the pope's passing.