Conclave: record figures, secrets, and rules for choosing Pope Francis's successor

The Vatican is preparing for a historic event: the conclave to elect the new Pope following the death of Francis. The event not only breaks records but also reveals little-known facts about the participants and the process.

With 135 cardinal electors, this will be the papal election with the most voters in history. The figure surpasses all previous Vatican records and marks a turning point in the papal succession process.

Who votes for the new Pope?

All cardinals under 80 years old can participate as electors. In this conclave, the oldest is Carlos Osoro Sierra, emeritus archbishop of Madrid, who was born in 1945 and arrives at 79 years old.

At the other end is Mykola Bychok, bishop of Saints Peter and Paul of Melbourne. He was born in 1980 and, at 45 years old, will be the only elector under 50.

Among the participants, Vinko Puljić, emeritus archbishop of Sarajevo, stands out, appointed cardinal in 1994 by John Paul II. He has a symbolic role as a "senator" of the conclave.

The newest member of the college of cardinals is Domenico Battaglia, from Naples, appointed in December 2024. His inclusion was known after the official list of new appointments was released.

How does the conclave work?

Once the process begins, the cardinals are completely isolated from the outside world. Cutting-edge technology and constant electronic sweeps are implemented to prevent leaks. The privacy of the event is total and strict.

During the conclave, the electors stay at the Casa de Santa Marta. The rooms began to be vacated a week in advance to welcome them comfortably. The cardinals can't vote for themselves, and any designated person can decline the position if they wish.

The famous smoke: how is the new Pope announced?

The smoke coming from the chimney indicates whether there was an election: black if not, white if yes. But in 1958, confusion over the gray color of the smoke led to premature celebrations.

To avoid mistakes, since 2005, chemical compounds have been used to enhance the color of the smoke. Additionally, if there is an election, the Vatican bells also ring loudly.

What is prepared for the presentation of the new Pope?

Everything is planned: from the announcement on the balcony to his attire. The Roman tailor Gamarelli makes three cassocks in different sizes, ready for whoever is chosen.

Pope Francis was the first to break with protocol. He preferred not to appear dressed in a full cassock or wear the traditional red shoes.

How is the new pontiff's name chosen?

The Pope chooses his name upon assuming office. The most historically used name is John, chosen by more than 20 pontiffs.

This tradition began with John II, who avoided being known as Mercury, a pagan name, when he assumed the papacy in the 6th century. Since then, changing the name has become a key rite at the start of his mandate.