Conclave in the Sistine Chapel
Inside the Sistine Chapel frescoed by Michelangelo Buonarroti the cardinals gather in the conclave to elect the new Pope.
The Sacred College of Cardinals votes several times until the Pope is elected.
Once the Cardinals were literally locked up in the Sistine Chapel until the election took place and this could be a problem since in the thirteenth century, it took almost three years to elect a successor to Pope Clement IV.
Today things are different and the cardinals, after the voting takes place in the Sistine Chapel, stay a short distance away in the nearby Casa di Santa Marta.
The conclave ends once a candidate secures at least two-thirds of the votes. The process can take several days.
In 2025, the new Pope was elected after four rounds of voting over two days. In contrast, the 2013 conclave lasted just under 27 hours and required five ballots.
The first conclave held in the Sistine Chapel was in 1492; since 1878 it has been the permanent seat of every conclave.
When the Pope is elected, the crowds of faithful wait in St Peter’s Square to see the smoke: white or black? If it is black it means that the Cardinals have not yet elected the Pope. White smoke in case of Habemus Papam.
F.A.Q.
What happens after the Pope's death?
Following Pope Francis's passing on April 21, 2025, the Vatican enters a period known as “Sede Vacante.” The Camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, oversees the Church's daily operations until a new Pope is elected.
Who participates in the conclave?
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. As of now, 135 cardinals from around the world will participate in this secretive process.
How is the new Pope elected?
Cardinals cast secret ballots in the Sistine Chapel. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new Pope. After each vote, ballots are burned; black smoke indicates no decision, while white smoke announces a successful election.
Can visitors witness the conclave?
No. The conclave is conducted in strict secrecy. However, visitors can explore the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums when they reopen to the public after the conclave concludes.
How long does a conclave usually last?
It varies. Some conclaves last just one or two days, while others take longer. For example, in 2025 the process took around 2 days; in 2013, it ended in just under 27 hours.
Where do the cardinals stay during the conclave?
They are housed inside Vatican City at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a residence near St. Peter's Basilica. They walk to the Sistine Chapel for each round of voting.
What is “Habemus Papam”?
It means “We have a Pope.” This Latin phrase is used during the official announcement from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica when a new Pope has been elected.
Can I visit the Vatican during the conclave?
Yes, most of the Vatican remains open, but the Sistine Chapel is temporarily closed to visitors during the conclave.
How will I know when a new Pope is chosen?
White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the ringing of bells signal the successful election. The announcement is made shortly afterward in St. Peter's Square.
