Back to intro The Sistine Chapel Papal Apartments St. Peter's Square St. Peter's Basilica St. Martha's House

Low graphics|Accessibility help
BBC News
watch One-Minute World News
News Front Page
Africa
Americas
Asia-Pacific
Europe
Middle East
South Asia
UK
Business
Health
Science & Environment
Technology
Entertainment
Also in the news
-----------------
Video and Audio
-----------------
Programmes
Have Your Say
In Pictures
Country Profiles
Special Reports
RELATED BBC SITES
 Vatican guide

SISTINE CHAPEL
Built in the late 15th Century, the chapel is famed for its ceiling and wall paintings by Renaissance master Michelangelo. It is also where the "princes of the Church" elect a new pope. Cardinals meet daily until they reach a decision, signalled by white smoke from the chapel's chimney.

 

white smoke from Sistine chapel indicates pope’s election in 1978 Onlookers wait to see smoke rising after each vote

Cardinals take part in ceremonies in 1978 at the Sistine Chapel Only cardinals under the age of 80 can take part in a conclave

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Americas Africa Europe Middle East South Asia Asia Pacific