When a pope has not been elected, black smoke is seen rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. This tradition dates back to the 15th century and serves as a signal to the outside world that a new pontiff has not yet been chosen. The conclave of cardinals meets in the Sistine Chapel to select a new pope, and the burning of the ballots after each round of voting produces either black or white smoke. If a pope has not been elected, the smoke is mixed with a special chemical to turn it black. This is done to prevent any confusion among the waiting crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square. The process of electing a new pope can take several days, as the cardinals deliberate and vote until a two-thirds majority is reached. During this time, the eyes of the world are on the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, waiting for a sign of white smoke to signal that a new pope has been chosen. In addition to the black and white smoke, the ringing of the bells of St. Peter's Basilica also signifies the election of a new pope. Once the chosen cardinal has accepted his election, he will choose a papal name and appear on the balcony of St. Peter's to greet the crowds gathered below. The election of a new pope is a momentous occasion in the Catholic Church, and the color of the smoke is a key part of the tradition. The black smoke serves as a reminder of the solemn and sacred nature of the conclave, while the white smoke signals the joyful news of a new leader for the church. In conclusion, when a pope has not been elected, black smoke is seen rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. This centuries-old tradition is a unique and symbolic way of communicating to the world the status of the papal election. The waiting crowds in St. Peter's Square eagerly anticipate the moment when the black smoke will give way to white, signaling the election of a new pope.

Sign Up