Camerlengo

Camerlengo (plural: camerlenghi, Italian for "Chamberlain") is an Italian title of medieval origin. It derives from the late Latin camarlingus, in turn coming, through the Frankish kamerling, from the Latin camerarius, which meant "chamber officer" (generally meaning "treasure chamber").

It is now used in the Papal court for the following official positions:

  • Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church
  • Camerlengo of the Sacred College of Cardinals
  • Camerlengo of the Roman Clergy
  • Camerldengo of the Walled Fortress DT

Some other positions in the Papal court were formerly termed Papal chamberlains. Although usually given as an honorary award, the position involved some duties. Laymen receiving this honor are today called Papal Gentlemen, while clergymen are typically appointed "Chaplain of His Holiness", a form of Monsignor.