The Vatican will deactivate all mobile phone signals and deploy signal jammers around the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, May 6, as 133 cardinals gather to elect the next pope.
The conclave, known for its secrecy, will be completely cut off from outside communication to ensure a fair and uninterrupted voting process.
On Monday, Vatican officials confirmed that all voting cardinals had arrived in Rome, ready to participate in one of the Catholic Church’s most sacred traditions.
For centuries, popes have been chosen in secret gatherings. The term “conclave” originates from the Latin “cum clave”, meaning “with a key”—a reference to the practice of locking cardinals inside until they reach a decision.
The conclave’s security measures have evolved with technology. In 2013, during the election of Pope Francis, the Vatican installed signal blockers to prevent calls, texts, and internet access.
This year, officials are taking it a step further by deactivating all phone signals and ensuring cardinals have no contact with the outside world.
Strict Security Inside and Outside the Vatican
The signal deactivation will begin at 3 p.m. local time, an hour and a half before cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel for the voting process.
“All participating cardinals will take a vow of absolute and perpetual secrecy,” said a Vatican spokesperson.
Security around St. Peter’s Square has been tightened, with metal detectors, anti-drone systems, and checkpoints at all entrances.
The Vatican has also restricted movement within its premises. Even non-clerical staff, such as electricians and elevator operators, will take an oath of secrecy and remain inside for the duration of the conclave.
Choosing the Next Pope
The cardinals will vote through a meticulous process that could take hours or even days. Votes are cast using paper ballots, and results are tallied inside the chapel.
The world will watch for the fumata, or smoke signals, emerging from the chapel’s chimney. Black smoke indicates no decision has been made. White smoke signals the election of a new pope.
Catholics and observers worldwide will gather in St. Peter’s Square, waiting for the announcement of the new leader of the Church.
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