Vatican City, 07 May, 2025 / 7:30 pm (ACI Africa).
The newly elected pope will leave the Sistine Chapel at the conclusion of the conclave and walk into a small antechamber, known as the “Room of Tears,” to be vested into his papal attire for the first time.
Here is a list of the garments you may see the new pope wearing once he steps out onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the people and impart his first “urbi et orbi” blessing:
The white skullcap — also known as a “zuchetto” or “pileolus” — covers the front and back of the pope’s head, signifying the authority of the pontiff above other prelates. It has an ecclesiastical history that dates back to the 13th century and is similar to the brimless hat worn by ancient Romans.
The white cassock — a long-sleeved, ankle-length garment — is tailor-made from 100% wool or a wool blend that signifies the innocence, charity, and holiness of the papal office, according to 13th-century French Bishop William Duranti. Cassocks, which have historical links to the Roman robe known as the “caracalla,” are traditionally made with 33 buttons to represent the 33 years of Jesus’ life before his resurrection and ascension into heaven.
A white sash made of linen or silk, also called a “fascia,” is worn over the cassock just above the waist and represents the pope’s devotion, dedication, and submission to Jesus Christ’s call to serve and look after his Church. The fascia is a symbol of readiness to minister to the people of God.
