Following the passing of Pope Francis, the attention now turns to the Vatican cardinals, who are set to select the next leader of the Catholic Church in the coming days. But how much do they actually earn? Salaries can reach up to €5,000.
The Vatican is known for maintaining a “secretive approach” regarding its financial mechanisms, but the monthly earnings of cardinals, or at least approximate figures, are public knowledge.
Those holding the highest positions in the Catholic Church earn between €4,000 and €5,000, according to reports, despite facing salary cuts in recent years—the first of which occurred in 2021 due to the pandemic.
During that period, cardinals experienced a 10% salary reduction, with a second pay cut implemented in 2024.
However, in addition to these figures, cardinals receive several other benefits, which supplement their income: reduced-cost housing within the Vatican, access to shops with lower prices, and free healthcare.
Besides the cardinals’ salaries, the Vatican’s budget encompasses other personnel expenses related to priests and bishops, who earn between €1,500 and €2,500 per month.
Two significant moments are at hand: the nine-day mourning period, known as ‘Novendiales’, and the conclave that will choose Pope Francis’s successor.
Notícias ao Minuto with Lusa | 18:40 – 26/04/2025
