Benedict the 16th has left the Vatican for the last time as pope.

With his closest aide by his side, Benedict said farewell to Vatican officials gathered in the courtyard of the Apostolic Palace.

Swiss Guards stood at attention.

Benedict traveled by car to the Vatican gardens and boarded a helicopter in the company of his secretary for the 15-minute trip to the Castel Gandolfo retreat.

He is now the first Pope in six centuries to resign.

Before leaving, Benedict pledged his quote:  unconditional reverence and obedience to his successor.

Three Canadian cardinals will be part of the conclave to elect a new pope.