Italy’s parliament today appeared to be heading for an unprecedented split between the conservative coalition led by Premier Silvio Berlusconi and one led by his centre-left challenger.

Billionaire Silvio Berlusconi has said a "new era" is beginning for Italy, after his conservative coalition last night won the country's general election.

Media baron Silvio Berlusconi today held a narrow lead in both chambers of parliament in his bid to win back Italy’s premiership with a coalition of right-wing allies - but it was unclear if he had captured the majority needed to govern.

Italians were lining up at the polls today to choose between conservative media baron Silvio Berlusconi as their next leader or the centre-left coalition that has governed for the last five years.

The Italian government has scheduled national elections for May 13 and says municipal elections would be held the same day.