Chimney Installed on Sistine Chapel for Papal Election

Preparations for the upcoming papal conclave are underway, with the installation of the iconic chimney on the Sistine Chapel roof, which will signal the results of the secretive vote for a new pope. The chimney emits black smoke if cardinals do not reach an agreement and white smoke when a new pontiff is chosen, with chemicals added to ensure the color is easily distinguishable. The conclave, set to begin next Wednesday, will involve 133 cardinals—the largest number to date—who must achieve a two-thirds majority to elect the new pope. Recent pre-conclave meetings have addressed key institutional challenges, including Vatican finances, organizational reforms, and the legacy of the late Pope Francis. This conclave is notable for occurring in the digital era, though it maintains the traditional strict isolation and rituals that are central to Catholicism. The world will watch for the white smoke, signaling the announcement of 'habemus papam' from St. Peter's Basilica.