In pictures: Italy's general election

The centre-right coalition led by the media magnate, Silvio Berlusconi, has won the Italian elections over the centre-left grouping of Francesco Rutelli.

But the polling process itself was criticised. Correspondents describe chaotic scenes, with some voters tearing up their ballots in protest at the long lines at polling booths.

Latest projections give Silvio Berlusconi a clear lead

Enraged voters overturned tables in frustration

Police were sent in to restore order in Naples

Some people had to wait until midnight to cast their vote

Mr Rutelli turned the spotlight on Mr Berlusconi's right-wing allies

European Commission President Romano Prodi voted in Bologna

Election coverage dominates the country's newspapers