The Vatican is expected to address a press conference shortly. Benedict XVI was elected on 19 April 2005 in a papal conclave, celebrated his Papal Inauguration Mass on 24 April 2005, and took possession of his cathedral, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, on 7 May 2005.

Reuters: The Pope says he is resigning in 'full freedom'. He will turn 86 in April.