Photos: Benedict becomes 1st pope in 600 years to resign
Benedict becomes 1st pope in 600 years to resign
Credit: Getty Images
ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 28: Swiss Guards offically close the gates of Castel Gandolfo which symbolises the end to Pope Benedict XVI's time as head of the Catholic Church and he becomes Roman Pope Emeritus on February 28, 2013 in Rome, Italy. Pope Benedict XVI has been the leader of the Catholic Church for eight years and is the first Pope to retire since 1415. He will stay at the Papal Summer residence of Castel Gandolfo until renovations are complete at a monastery in the grounds of the Vatican and will be known as Roman Pope Emeritus. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
Other Slide Shows
Medical examiner: 24 dead in Oklahoma twister
Arias asks jury for life term; deliberations begin
Photos of Tucson shooting scene show gun, knife
Photos: Oklahoma tornado damage
Photos | Tornado rips through Oklahoma City suburbs
Maricopa Mugs: May Arrest Photos Volume 3
Related:
Pope gives final Sunday blessing before resigning
Could the next pope come from the United States?
Text of pope's announcement he will resign Feb. 28 
Pope to resign Feb. 28, says he's too infirm 
Pope Benedict XVI - Fast Facts
Cardinals celebrate Mass before entering conclave
