All mobile phone signals will be turned off in the Vatican on Wednesday as part of preparations for the upcoming conclave to elect the new pope, following the departure of Pope Francis. Reports from Italian state media indicate that signal jammers will be set up around the Sistine Chapel to ensure the utmost secrecy and prevent any form of external communication.
The signal shutdown is scheduled for 3 PM local time (11 PM AEST), approximately 90 minutes before the 133 cardinals convene in the Sistine Chapel to begin the conclave. This practice is aimed at preserving the confidentiality of the discussions and voting processes involved in electing the next pontiff. The Vatican has confirmed that all 133 cardinals have arrived in Rome, ready to take part in this significant event.
The conclave, derived from the Latin meaning “with key,” signifies the tradition of locking cardinals inside until a new pope is appointed. This age-old process has evolved over centuries, deeply rooted in Middle Ages customs. During the conclave, cardinals and other essential personnel must surrender their phones and electronic devices to ensure no breaches of confidentiality are possible.
The cardinals will be completely isolated within the Sistine Chapel and will adhere to a vow of “absolute and perpetual secrecy” throughout the conclave. While the signal deactivation will not extend to St. Peter’s Square, where the public gathers, security measures have been heightened in that area. Police are implementing checkpoints, metal detectors, and anti-drone systems to maintain order and safety as visitors pass through.
Despite the stringent security, the pilgrim’s route to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica will remain unchanged, allowing access to the public. The Sistine Chapel will effectively be under total lockdown to reinforce the secrecy of the conclave proceedings.
The last time a conclave took place, in 2013 for the election of Pope Francis, similar signal-jamming measures were enacted to ensure privacy during the selection process. Even maintenance staff like electricians and plumbers, who remain on duty within the Vatican, will take oaths of confidentiality and reside temporarily on-site, limiting contact with their families.
This approach guarantees that the election of the new leader of the Catholic Church, responsible for guiding over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, is carried out in an environment of strict discretion and care. Any breaches in the process could be seen as a significant compromise of the traditions surrounding this pivotal event in the Catholic Church.