All mobile phone signals will be disabled within Vatican City on Wednesday as part of stringent measures ahead of the secretive conclave to elect the next pope, Italian media have reported. The Vatican will deploy signal jammers around the Sistine Chapel, where the 133 cardinals will meet to cast their votes.
This blackout is intended to ensure that no electronic communication or surveillance can compromise the secrecy of the process. According to state broadcaster RAI, the signal cutoff will begin at 3 p.m. local time, shortly before the cardinals enter the chapel.
Cardinals Enter Isolation, Surrender Devices, and Swear Secrecy Ahead of Conclave
The 133 cardinals who will elect Pope Francis’ successor have all arrived in Rome, the Vatican confirmed. They are required to surrender all phones and electronic devices by Tuesday and will not regain access until the conclave concludes. These protocols are part of a tradition aimed at maintaining absolute discretion and are rooted in centuries-old Church practices. The term “conclave” itself means “with key” in Latin, a reference to the ancient tradition of locking in cardinals until a decision is reached.
Vatican Enforces Total Signal Blackout as Cardinals Enter Isolation to Elect New PopeStarting Wednesday, the cardinals will be completely isolated within the Sistine Chapel. They are bound by an oath of “absolute and perpetual secrecy” throughout the voting process. The Chapel will be placed under total lockdown, with no communication allowed with the outside world. Signal jammers have been employed in previous conclaves as well, including during the 2013 election that brought Pope Francis to the papacy. This rigorous lockdown is designed to ensure the sanctity and confidentiality of the proceedings.
Public Access Allowed, But Security Tightens as Vatican Staff Swear to Secrecy
While the conclave itself is being held in strict seclusion, public areas like St. Peter’s Square will remain accessible. However, security has been significantly increased in these spaces. Italian police have established checkpoints, installed metal detectors, and deployed anti-drone technology. Despite the increased security, the pilgrim’s route and access to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica will remain unchanged, allowing for continued public participation in religious traditions.
In addition to the cardinals, support personnel such as electricians, elevator operators, and plumbers will remain inside the Vatican and be sworn to secrecy. These staff members are essential to the conclave’s operation and will reside within Vatican grounds for the duration of the event without contact with their families. Their commitment to confidentiality is critical to maintaining the conclave’s integrity, according to a statement from the Vatican City State Governorate.