A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Papal Election

When a pope dies or resigns, the Catholic Church doesn’t just post a job opening. Instead, it turns to one of the oldest—and most mysterious—election processes in the world.

Step 1: The Conclave Begins

Once the papacy is vacant, the world’s cardinals under the age of 80 gather in Rome. There are typically 110-120 eligible voting cardinals. After a brief mourning period, they enter the Sistine Chapel and are sealed inside for a ritual known as the conclave (from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key”). No phones, no assistants, no press. Just centuries of tradition—and voting ballots.

Step 2: Vote by Vote, Round by Round

To be elected pope, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority. Ballots are cast twice each morning and twice each afternoon. After each round, ballots are burned in a special stove inside the chapel:

• If no pope is elected, black smoke rises from the chimney. The mixture for black smoke typically includes potassium percholate, anthracene and sulfur.

• If a new pope is chosen, the world sees white smoke—and bells ring from St. Peter’s Basilica. the iconic white smoke is produced by burning a specific chemical mixture of potassium chlorate, lactose, and pine rosin.

Did You Know? The Papal Election’s Best-Kept Secret:

Officially, there’s no campaigning allowed when a new pope is chosen—but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. In the secretive world of Vatican politics, cardinals sometimes quietly promote themselves or others through whispered alliances, strategic interviews, or even well-timed publications. It’s called “papabile positioning”—the art of becoming a front-runner without ever seeming to try.

One cardinal reportedly released a theological book in multiple languages just before the last conclave—subtle, but noticed. Others grant interviews that gently highlight their “humble service” or “global perspective.” And behind closed doors, allies do the talking, gauging support and floating names.

No posters, no slogans—just incense, influence, and impeccable timing.