White smoke and an ancient formula: How the world learns a new Pope has been chosen
From color-coded smoke to a Latin proclamation on the balcony, centuries-old traditions still define the moment a new pope is elected.
[FILES] White smoke rises from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, meaning that cardinals elected a new pope on the second day of their secret conclave on 13 March 2013 at the Vatican. When Catholic cardinals vote in the conclave, they then burn their ballots, sending up black smoke to signal no decision or white smoke to show they have chosen a new pope. The centuries-old tradition of using smoke has changed over time -- as has the technology used.
Vincenzo PINTO / AFP
The moment a new pope is chosen is marked not by a press release, but by powerful ritual and symbolism: white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the words Habemus Papam ringing out from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. These traditions have roots going back centuries—and they remain vital to how the Catholic Church announces its new leader to the world.
The white smoke that stirs the crowd
As cardinals cast their secret ballots inside the Sistine Chapel, the rest of the world waits with eyes fixed on a chimney. The smoke that pours out of it is more than just burnt paper—it’s a coded message. Black smoke (fumata nera) signals no decision has been reached. White smoke (fumata bianca) tells the world: we have a pope.
The tradition of using smoke to communicate the outcome of a papal vote dates back at least to the 15th century, but likely earlier. The current system was inspired by Pope Gregory X's 1274 decree in Ubi Periculum, which required strict secrecy for conclaves. Initially, straw was added to the fire to alter the color of the smoke. Today, special chemical additives ensure the color is unmistakable—and since the election of Pope Benedict XVI, a bell also rings to confirm the result.
The ancient words: Habemus papam
Minutes after the white smoke appears, another moment steeped in history follows: the announcement of the new pope by the cardinal protodeacon. The phrase begins with:
Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus papam…
("I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope!")
The full Latin formula includes the pope’s given name and the new papal name he has chosen. First used in 1417 following the election of Pope Martin V, this tradition signified not just a new leader, but the end of years of division during the Western Schism.
A living connection to the past
These rituals do more than inform—they unify. With millions watching from around the globe, the white smoke and Latin words provide continuity with centuries of Catholic history. As the cardinals prepare to elect the 267th pope, these symbols remain enduring links between the Church’s past and its future.
This article is based on a report by Julieta Villar, ACI Prensa / EWTN Vatican.