Centuries-old traditions govern meals during Vatican’s sacred process
As 133 cardinals prepare to gather in the Sistine Chapel for the papal conclave on May 7, the world watches not only the election of the next pope but also the ancient traditions governing the process, including the meals cardinals consume during their seclusion.
Cardinals stay at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a cozy and private Vatican hotel, during the conclave. They are offered intentionally simple and uncomplicated food, according to Reuters.
Meal restrictions to maintain focus
The strict dietary regulations during conclaves were established in 1274 when Pope Gregory X ordered cardinals to be isolated from the outside world while selecting a new pope, Legit reported.
They were only allowed to eat one meal per day after three days, and then only bread, water, and wine after eight days in order to expedite the process. Even though these strict regulations were subsequently relaxed, delivering modest meals is still a common practice today.
Minimal fare to preserve solemnity
During the conclave, cardinals stay at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a Vatican guesthouse that offers comfort and privacy. The food they are served is purposely plain and simple. Meals are prepared by religious sisters and typically include traditional dishes from the Lazio region, such as soups, pasta, small meat kebabs, and boiled vegetables, similar to basic hospital food.
This simplicity is meant to prevent indulgence or distraction, helping the cardinals stay focused on the serious task of electing a new pope, as reported by the BBC.
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Casual conversations and dining
Cardinals frequently look for more casual settings to discuss the election, even if formal meals are extremely severe. Al Passetto del Borgo and Marcoantonio, two eateries close to the Vatican, serve Italian food like carbonara and rigatoni alla norcina. These places give cardinals a private setting in which to discuss and reach an agreement.
Food’s function in contemporary conclaves
Some of the previous dietary restrictions have been loosened by the Vatican in recent years. Cardinals were permitted to eat in neighborhood eateries during the 2013 conclave, for example, as their last meals outside of seclusion. The main idea remains the same: simple meals are served during the conclave to help cardinals stay focused on their holy task of choosing the pope.
As the conclave nears, the world will watch not just for the new pope’s announcement but also for the continuation of these long-standing traditions that highlight the holy and serious nature of the papal election.
