In the fascinating world of the Vatican, the papal conclave remains one of the most significant and secretive elections, greatly influencing over 1.4 billion Roman Catholics. As the gathering of cardinals unfolds, social media has turned this solemn event into a hub of creativity and irreverence. It all starts on Wednesday, as discussions among eminent cardinals are broadcasted to a global audience immersed in online platforms.
“It’s incredibly wild,” said Rob Anderson, an author and internet personality focused on pop and L.G.B.T.Q. culture. The conclave has gained widespread attention, especially following the cinematic portrayal in the movie “Conclave,” which vividly illustrated the process in a way akin to watching an engaging series.
This intriguing blend of solemnity and spectacle has resonated particularly with younger demographics, who are taking to various social media platforms to share their takes. Articles in Italian media have dubbed this time as the onset of "Vatican-core summer," highlighting the current trend.
Engaged online communities have emerged, creating video compilations featuring cardinals set to soundtracks from popular artists, while TikTok takes center stage with creators humorously reenacting conclave conversations. The culture of sharing and engaging is at the forefront, with influencers providing humorous guides on the cardinals and their potential candidacies. A notable viral meme features a cardinal lighting a cigarette for another, amassing over five million views on X (formerly Twitter).
Victoria Genzini, a curator and meme page owner, noted the heightened interest in Vatican aesthetics since the airing of “The Young Pope” series in 2016. This evolution of the conclave from a purely religious event to a platform for cultural expression is a testament to the dynamic relationship between tradition and modernity as a new generation eagerly engages with these historical rituals.
“It’s incredibly wild,” said Rob Anderson, an author and internet personality focused on pop and L.G.B.T.Q. culture. The conclave has gained widespread attention, especially following the cinematic portrayal in the movie “Conclave,” which vividly illustrated the process in a way akin to watching an engaging series.
This intriguing blend of solemnity and spectacle has resonated particularly with younger demographics, who are taking to various social media platforms to share their takes. Articles in Italian media have dubbed this time as the onset of "Vatican-core summer," highlighting the current trend.
Engaged online communities have emerged, creating video compilations featuring cardinals set to soundtracks from popular artists, while TikTok takes center stage with creators humorously reenacting conclave conversations. The culture of sharing and engaging is at the forefront, with influencers providing humorous guides on the cardinals and their potential candidacies. A notable viral meme features a cardinal lighting a cigarette for another, amassing over five million views on X (formerly Twitter).
Victoria Genzini, a curator and meme page owner, noted the heightened interest in Vatican aesthetics since the airing of “The Young Pope” series in 2016. This evolution of the conclave from a purely religious event to a platform for cultural expression is a testament to the dynamic relationship between tradition and modernity as a new generation eagerly engages with these historical rituals.
