Vatican's Papal events in Rome are amplified by K-array's Firenze system.
In the heart of Rome, Italy, the K-array Firenze system took centre stage at some of the most significant ecclesiastical events in recent history. The system was deployed for the funeral of Pope Francis, the "Habemus Papam" proclamation, and the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, all held in St Peter's Square on April 26 and May 18, respectively [1][2].
The K-array Firenze system was designed as a two-zone sound reinforcement setup, expertly tailored to meet the unique acoustic challenges of the open-air Vatican setting [5]. For the immediate outdoor area, twelve towers, each approximately ten metres tall, were installed. Each tower was equipped with five K-array KH7 speakers and accompanying KS7 subwoofers, designed to provide clear and powerful sound coverage across large, open spaces [3].
This setup ensured excellent clarity and even audio distribution for the solemn and highly significant events, allowing both the large live crowds and distant attendees to clearly hear the proceedings. The two-zone audio design allowed precise control over different areas of the square, accommodating the unique acoustic challenges of the open-air Vatican setting while maintaining intelligibility for speeches, proclamations, and ceremonial music.
At the funeral of Pope Francis, the system delivered dignified and reverberant sound to support the solemn atmosphere of the ceremony [1][2]. During the “Habemus Papam” (We have a Pope) proclamation, it ensured wide reach and vocal clarity when announcing the election of Pope Leo XIV to the thousands gathered in the square and millions watching remotely [2]. At the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the Firenze system amplified the pope’s addresses and ritual elements, ensuring the ceremonial significance was communicated effectively to the vast assembly in St. Peter’s Square [1][3].
The Vatican had requested a visually discreet solution for both the support structures and the audio system in the original tender notice. The K-array Firenze system, with its minimalist design, met this requirement, providing a seamless integration into the historic backdrop of St Peter’s Square.
The K-array Firenze system had previously been installed for the 2025 "Jubilee of Hope" events in Vatican City. Each event had an estimated live participation of between 60,000 and 150,000 people, with a global TV audience in the tens of millions [4]. The system used a double fibre optic network for audio, video, and control signals, ensuring reliable and high-quality transmission throughout the events.
In conclusion, the K-array Firenze system played a pivotal audio role in the historic Vatican events of 2025, providing pristine sound quality, broad coverage, and the ability to handle the acoustical complexity of St. Peter’s Square during these landmark ecclesiastical events [1][3][5].
The K-array Firenze system, with its advanced technology and precision design, was not only a key component for the audio reinforcement during the significant ecclesiastical events in Vatican City but also during the 2025 "Jubilee of Hope" events. Enhancing the audio clarity and distribution for the crowds, the system was equipped with gadgets like KH7 speakers and KS7 subwoofers, fitted in various tech-savvy gadgets including towers, ensuring seamless integration and visually discreet solutions.
