Where Does the Smoke Come from at the Vatican
The visible smoke at the Vatican comes from a temporary chimney installed on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. It is created by burning paper and other materials to signal the outcome of a papal conclave.
What the Smoke Signals Mean
Black smoke indicates that a new pope has not yet been chosen, while white smoke shows that a pope has been elected. The color is controlled by the type of chemicals added to the fire.
How the Smoke Is Produced
Officials use a specially designed stove connected to the chimney on the chapel roof. After ballots are burned, smoke rises through the chimney and becomes visible to crowds in St. Peter's Square.
For more details on the process, see the official Vatican explanation at Vatican.va.
