Vatican City: The 133 cardinals set to elect Pope Francis’s successor in a conclave commencing on Wednesday have been assigned their accommodations at Santa Marta’s hostel by random draw, as announced by the Vatican on Monday. This hostel is notably the residence of Pope Francis himself.

According to Philippines News Agency, the cardinals will reside at Santa Marta starting Tuesday night while engaging in the conclave at the Sistine Chapel. As part of the conclave’s protocols, the cardinals are required to relinquish their phones to ensure complete focus and seclusion during the decision-making process.

The Vatican also specified that the Santa Marta kitchen staff has been directed to prepare only light meals for the cardinals throughout the duration of the conclave, emphasizing simplicity and reflection during this critical period.