when does conclave start 2025

The conclave to elect a new pope in 2025 started on May 7th. The cardinals convened in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel for this process, which began with a Mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff at St. Peter's Basilica and a procession into the Sistine Chapel. Once inside, the cardinal electors took an oath of secrecy before commencing the voting. This date was set after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, following the traditional 15 to 20 days period before a conclave starts. The election took place under the rules established by the apostolic constitution, with over 130 cardinals eligible to vote, all under the age of 80.