Ballots are burned in the process, but the smoke seen by the world is created using another stove, the Vatican Information Service reported in 2013.

A conclave is the centuries-old election of a pope that derives its name from the Italian “con clave” (with a key) to underscore that cardinals are sequestered until they find a winner.

From the majestic art to the white smoke, here's what to know about the Sistine Chapel, the sacred site of the conclave.