Overview
- The Vatican informed Gammarelli, the traditional papal tailor since 1798, that no new cassocks were needed for the May 7 conclave, signaling a reliance on existing garments.
- Raniero Mancinelli, an 86-year-old tailor, has independently crafted and delivered three sizes of cassocks, sashes, and zucchettos as a gift for potential use by the new pope.
- This marks a significant departure from the centuries-old ritual of preparing 'virgin' cassocks for a newly elected pope, a tradition upheld by Gammarelli for nearly two centuries.
- Speculation suggests the decision reflects Pope Francis's legacy of simplicity and sustainability, as he often eschewed traditional trappings of papal luxury during his tenure.
- The conclave, set to begin on May 7 in the Sistine Chapel, will see 133 cardinals elect Francis's successor, with Mancinelli's garments available as an alternative option.