Vatican City, May 2 (EFE).- Firefighters installed the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican on Friday in preparation for the upcoming conclave, which begins on May 7.
The chimney will emit black or white smoke to signal the outcome of the cardinals’ votes for the next pope.
Some preliminary tests are expected to be conducted Friday to ensure the chimney functions properly.
The Sistine Chapel was closed to the public on Monday to begin preparations for the conclave.
Cardinals from around the world have been called to Rome after the death of Pope Francis, 88, on Apr.21, who led the Catholic Church for 12 years.
A total of 133 cardinals under the age of 80 will gather beneath Michelangelo’s imposing Last Judgment to cast their votes for a successor to Pope Francis.
As part of the preparations, the chapel must be outfitted with tables and benches for the cardinals’ deliberations.
The chimney, through which the result of each vote is announced by burning the ballots, is also installed.
Black smoke will indicate no decision has been reached, while white smoke, produced with the help of a chemical additive, will signal that a new pope has been elected.
A two-thirds majority is required, which in this case means 89 votes. EFE
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