What Does the Smoke Mean Pope
The smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signals the result of a papal conclave. The College of Cardinals gathers to elect a new pope, and the color of the smoke tells the world the outcome.
White Smoke Meaning
White smoke means a pope has been elected. When a cardinal receives enough votes, the chapel releases white smoke. This marks the end of the conclave and the beginning of a new papacy.
Black Smoke Meaning
Black smoke means no pope was elected in a round. If the required two-thirds majority is not reached, the cardinals burn the ballots with chemicals that create dark smoke. The process continues until a pope is chosen.
