when does the conclave start 2025

The conclave to elect the new pope in 2025 officially started on May 7, 2025. It was held in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican, beginning with a morning Mass and followed by the cardinals processing into the chapel to begin the voting process. This date was set about 16 days after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, in accordance with church rules that require the conclave to start between 15 and 20 days after the papal seat becomes vacant.