Following the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican has entered a solemn period marked by centuries-old traditions—among them, the ceremonial destruction of the Ring of the Fisherman, a symbol of papal authority.
The ring, also known as the Piscatory Ring, is not just a decorative item. Worn by every Pope since the 13th century, it was historically used to seal official Church documents. Its imprint served as the Pope’s signature, authenticating everything from decrees to appointments.
But upon the death of a Pope, the ring must be destroyed.
This ritual originated as a safeguard. By physically destroying the ring, the Church ensured that no one could impersonate the Pope or issue forged documents in his name.
In earlier centuries, such forgeries could destabilize the Church or alter decisions affecting millions of faithful.
While today’s Vatican relies on modern security measures and digital verification, the destruction of the ring remains an essential symbolic act—signaling that the Pope’s earthly authority has come to an end.
The destruction takes place in the presence of senior Vatican officials. A small silver hammer is used to deface the ring, often leaving it visibly damaged or shattered.
This act is not meant to erase the memory of the Pope, but to protect the sacred office he held.
With the ring destroyed, the Camerlengo—currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell—also oversees the sealing of the Pope’s private apartments and begins organizing the funeral rites, guided by a strict Vatican protocol.
As Catholics around the globe mourn Pope Francis, attention now turns to the Vatican, where the rituals of transition have begun. The destruction of the ring serves as a visible reminder: the papacy, though eternal in spirit, must now pass to another.
