Vatican installs chimney above the Sistine Chapel: why it is needed for the papal elections.

On May 2, a chimney was installed on the roof of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican to signal during the conclave for the election of a new Pope, reports 'Glavcom'.

The dark rusty chimney was secured above the terracotta roof of the 15th-century chapel, which is adorned with Michelangelo's frescoes.

The chimney is clearly visible from St. Peter's Square, where thousands of people will gather during the conclave to watch the voting. Black smoke from the chimney will indicate that a new Pope has not yet been elected, while white smoke and bells will announce to the world the election of the successor to Francis.

It should be noted that Pope Francis died at the age of 88. He held the papal office since March 13, 2013.

The new pontiff will have to decide whether to continue Francis's course on reforming the church or return to more conservative principles. This election will be important for the Catholic community and the world, as it will determine the direction of the church's development in the coming years.

It is worth noting that the election of a new Pope is one of the oldest and most mysterious rituals of the Catholic Church with deep symbolic significance for millions of Catholics around the world. This process is governed by strict rules that combine tradition and spirituality.