Sede Vacante Coat of Arms

What’s the Sede Vacante Coat of Arms?
During the time between popes (Sede Vacante) or empty chair, the Vatican uses a special coat of arms instead of the pope’s.


What’s on it?

Red Umbrella (Ombrellino): A traditional symbol of the Church in waiting. Half-open, it shows the pope is absent—but the Church still stands.

Crossed Keys of St. Peter: Gold and silver keys represent the authority Christ gave to St. Peter. Even without a pope, that authority continues.

It’s a reminder: the Church doesn’t collapse without a pope—it waits, prays, and trusts the Holy Spirit