As 133 cardinals enter seclusion in the Sistine Chapel for the papal conclave on May 7, eyes around the world not only turn to who will be the new pope but also to ancient traditions surrounding how the choosing is done—including what the cardinals will be eating these holy days, reports the BBC.
Traditionally, the conclave enforced severe rules with regard to food to foster a quick choice. Cardinlals after three days were given one meal a day, and after eight days, bread, wine, and water were all that they were permitted. Although such severe measures were eased with time, the practice of serving simple, no-nonsense fare continues.
What’s on the Plate?
Cardinals stay at Domus Sanctae Marthae, a Vatican guesthouse that provides privacy and plain comfort, during the conclave. Meals are intentionally simple and are typically cooked by religious sisters.
The menu consists of traditional Lazio fare such as soup, pasta, boiled vegetables, and small meat kebabs similar to plain hospital-style meals.
This is done to preserve solemnity and keep cardinals un distracted. As the BBC explained, the meal “is deliberately plain and simple” so that they can focus on their divine responsibility.
Informal Dining Conversations
Although official dinners are rare, cardinals on occasion have preferred more casual settings to make discussions. Before going into complete retreat, they frequent nearby eateries like Al Passetto del Borgo and Marcoantonio, which dish out traditional Italian fare like carbonara and rigatoni alla norcina. Such restaurants offer an off-the-record atmosphere where intimate conversation about the conclave and papal choice takes place.
A Modern Take on an Ancient Ritual
Some of the diet restrictions have been relaxed over the years. In 2013, cardinals began eating in local restaurants shortly before they were completely isolated. Nevertheless, once the conclave is underway, the Vatican takes care that meals are kept plain and unadorned to suit the seriousness of the proceedings. As the new conclave draws near, the world waits not only for the white smoke, but also for the discreet continuation of these ancient traditions that highlight the gravity of electing the next head of the Catholic Church.
