Steps away from the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals elect the next pontiff during a Conclave, a small room awaits. Known as the Room of Tears, or sometimes called the Crying Room, this antechamber serves a singular purpose immediately following the conclusion of the papal election.
After the pope-elect accepts the decision of the papal election, ending the Conclave, he is escorted to this room. Here, he changes from the red robes of a cardinal into the white garments of the pope.
The Room of Tears' name, in both English and its Italian variations, Stanza delle Lacrime or Sala de Lacrima, suggests the weight of the moments spent inside. It is located near the Sistine Chapel, behind Michelangelo's "Last Judgement" painting.
Newly elected popes have reacted differently within the room. Pope Leo XIII reportedly wept upon his 1878 election, believing he was too old for the role. Pope John XXIII joked about his appearance in the papal vestments in 1958.
The room holds the practical items necessary for the transition. Three sizes of white papal vestments are kept there, ensuring a fit for the new pontiff. Boxes containing papal shoes are also present.
Pope Francis, in a memoir recalling his 2013 election, noted finding his episcopal ring and choosing to keep his orthopedic shoes rather than don the traditional red papal ones and red cape.
Beyond the garments, the space also contains memorabilia and documents from previous pontificates. While the room is typically secured, it is occasionally accessible to visitors.
After changing, the new pope emerges to choose his papal name and prepare for his first appearance before the public gathered in St. Peter's Square.
