Amidst the anticipation of choosing the Roman Catholic Church’s new leader, the cardinals participating in the conclave will be dining at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta guesthouse, where culinary expectations fall short of heavenly as they indulge in simple fare and cramped quarters.
Cardinals Face Modest Meals During Papal Conclave at Vatican
Cardinals Face Modest Meals During Papal Conclave at Vatican
As cardinals gather to select the next pope, their dining experiences mirror their austere values, described as "train station food."
The cardinals assembling for the anticipated conclave to elect the next pope are hardly feasting in luxury. With their mission of selecting the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, the cardinals’ dining experience has been humorously critiqued by Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, who likened the meal options to what one might find at a train station. The offerings at Casa Santa Marta, the guesthouse in Vatican City, are often described as bland, featuring watery pasta sauces, plain cutlets, and uninspired salads.
The ambiance does not enhance the experience either. With its utilitarian design, the cafeteria walls adorned with fan art depicting Pope Francis as a Jedi knight, and sparse furniture, the vibe is anything but inviting. Yet, many priests still strive for a reservation there, as it was once the home of Pope Francis, who was known for his emphasis on modesty and simple living.
Unsurprisingly, under Francis's influence, the cuisine has faced scrutiny. Some cardinals have noted a trend towards less flavorful dishes, focusing on bland vegetables and uninspired leftovers, including boxed dates received from international visitors.
The reviews are merciless and cross ideological lines as highlighted by Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, who supports Pope Francis, stating simply, “You don’t eat very well.” Even differing opinions, such as from Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, who had been removed from his position by Francis, echo the same sentiment with, “It’s not so good.”
Though one might expect sumptuous meals befitting the setting, during the conclave, an unpretentious dining experience remains the norm, as the cardinals engage in their solemn duty of selecting the Church’s next spiritual guide.
The ambiance does not enhance the experience either. With its utilitarian design, the cafeteria walls adorned with fan art depicting Pope Francis as a Jedi knight, and sparse furniture, the vibe is anything but inviting. Yet, many priests still strive for a reservation there, as it was once the home of Pope Francis, who was known for his emphasis on modesty and simple living.
Unsurprisingly, under Francis's influence, the cuisine has faced scrutiny. Some cardinals have noted a trend towards less flavorful dishes, focusing on bland vegetables and uninspired leftovers, including boxed dates received from international visitors.
The reviews are merciless and cross ideological lines as highlighted by Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, who supports Pope Francis, stating simply, “You don’t eat very well.” Even differing opinions, such as from Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, who had been removed from his position by Francis, echo the same sentiment with, “It’s not so good.”
Though one might expect sumptuous meals befitting the setting, during the conclave, an unpretentious dining experience remains the norm, as the cardinals engage in their solemn duty of selecting the Church’s next spiritual guide.
