With Pope Francis’s passing, the Vatican prepares for one of its most solemn and secretive rituals: the conclave to elect his successor. While the world’s eyes are on the Capella Sixtina, where the voting takes place, there’s another less visible but equally significant scene: the kitchen of Casa Santa Marta, where cardinal electors are fed.
A Reflective Diet
During the conclave, cardinals stay at Casa Santa Marta, a modern residence within the Vatican. There, they are offered simple yet carefully crafted meals designed to provide energy without distractions. The menus include dishes like al dente pasta, baked fish, steamed vegetables, and fresh fruits. Wine and coffee are available, but the atmosphere during meals is one of restraint and silence.
Papal Table Anecdotes
Throughout history, food during conclaves has been the subject of curiosities and anecdotes. In the 13th century, during a particularly prolonged conclave in Viterbo, local authorities, frustrated by the delay in choosing a new pope, decided to ration the cardinals’ food, providing them only bread and water to expedite the process. This extreme measure was one of the factors that led to the election of a new pope and the institutionalization of stricter norms for future conclaves.
In more recent times, it has been documented that some cardinals bring small personal provisions, like chocolates or cookies, to endure the long deliberation hours. However, most adapt to the diet offered by Casa Santa Marta, valuing simplicity and the opportunity to share moments of fraternity at the table.
The Vatican Kitchen in Books
Former Swiss Guard and chef David Geisser has compiled in his book “The Vatican Kitchen” various recipes and stories about food at the Santa Sede. Among them are traditional dishes like minestrone soup, saffron risotto, and desserts such as tiramisu. These dishes reflect the influence of Italian cuisine and the diverse tastes of popes and cardinals throughout the centuries.
After the new pope’s election, it is tradition for him to share a meal with the cardinal electors. This first meal, known as the “white dinner”, symbolizes unity and marks the beginning of a new era for the Church. The menu is usually simple, reflecting the humility and service that characterize papal leadership.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is a papal conclave? A papal conclave is the process by which the College of Cardinals elects a new pope following the death or resignation of the sitting pope.
- Where do cardinals stay during a conclave? Cardinals stay at Casa Santa Marta, a modern residence within the Vatican.
- What type of meals do cardinals receive during a conclave? Cardinals are offered simple yet carefully crafted meals, designed to provide energy without distractions.
- What is the “white dinner”? The “white dinner” is the first meal shared by the newly elected pope with the cardinal electors, symbolizing unity and marking a new era for the Church.
- Who is David Geisser? David Geisser is a former Swiss Guard and chef who authored “The Vatican Kitchen,” documenting various recipes and stories about food at the Santa Sede.
As the world awaits the white smoke announcing the new leader of the Catholic Church, the Vatican’s culinary tradition continues, accompanying one of the most significant processes in Catholic faith through its simplicity.
