The subcinctorium is an ornamental vestment reserved for the pope, and the Patriarch of Lisbon, which is worn at solemn pontifical Mass.
It was originally made of red or white fabric, but later came to follow the standard liturgical colours.
The subcinctorium is mentioned under the name of balteus as early as the end of the tenth century in a "Sacramentarium" of this date preserved in the Bibliothèque Nationale at Paris (f. lat.
One tradition says it is a remnant of the almspurse the popes would customarily wear on their belts to give to the poor and needy.
It was also said to be a sign of humility, reminiscent of the towel worn by Jesus Christ at the washing of feet on Holy Thursday.