The Vatican prepares for one of the most mysterious events of the Catholic Church – the conclave. A special chimney has already been installed on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, which not only attracts the attention of the crowds, but also becomes the main signal for the whole world.
Chimney at the Sistine Chapel – why was it built?
The chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel is not only a technical detail – it is a key element of the tradition of election of the pope. During the ongoing conclave, it is through this chimney that smoke comes out, which informs the faithful and the media about the outcome of the cardinals' vote.
How does a chimney work during a conclave?
- Black smoke means no new pope has yet been elected.
- White smoke is a sign that the cardinals have made a choice – the world has come to know the new head of the Church.
The secret of smoke: how does it arise and why is it so important?
The smoke that comes out of the chimney is formed in two cast iron furnaces set in the chapel. In one, voting cards are burned, and in the other – using special chemicals – smoke of selected colour is produced.
Smoke components
- White smoke: potassium chloride, lithium lactate, turpentine – provide a clear, clear color.
- Black smoke: potassium nitrate, soot, aniline – guarantee intense black.
Thanks to modern chemical mixtures there is no doubt about the colour of smoke – which was once a problem and led to confusion among observers.
Conclave course – tradition and modernity
Conclave is not only a vote, but also a spectacle of traditions and rituals. Cardinals vote up to four times a day, and it takes a majority of two thirds of the vote to elect a pope. After every vote, cards are burned, and crowds in St. Peter's Square stare at the chimney, waiting for a sign.
Chimin – more than technology
Although chimney assembly is a task for Vatican firefighters and technicians, its importance goes far beyond the practical dimension. It is a symbol of the continuity, unity and mystery of the Church. For many believers, the moment of the appearance of white smoke is the most exciting moment – like the final whistle in a match that changes history.
The church at the Sistine Chapel is an integral part of every conclave. Thanks to him, the whole world learns at one moment about the election of a new pope. It is a tradition that – although using modern solutions today – still creates huge emotions and brings together millions of people on all continents.
