Workers install chimney atop Sistine Chapel for conclave

Firefighters have installed the traditional chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, marking the final preparations for the papal conclave, which is set to begin on May 7. The conclave follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88, after serving as pontiff for 12 years.

One hundred thirty-three cardinals under 80 are eligible to vote in the secretive process to elect the next pope. The iconic chimney plays a crucial role in communicating the results to the world: black smoke means no decision has been made, while white smoke signals that a new pope has been elected.

Voting will begin with one round on the first day, followed by up to four votes each subsequent day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. If a candidate receives the required two-thirds majority—at least 89 votes—the ballots are burned with special chemicals to produce white smoke. If no pope is elected, the ballots are burned without additives, resulting in black smoke.

Ballots are only burned after the second vote of each session unless a decision is reached earlier. The process will continue until a new pontiff emerges from the College of Cardinals.