Conclave 2025: Cardinals Touch Down in Rome Ahead of the Papal Election

May 6, 2025 • 1 minute read.

Cardinals in red cassocks wheel suitcases toward St. Peter’s Basilica at sunrise while a jet passes overhead—symbolizing their arrival in Rome for the 2025 papal conclave.
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The Road to the Sistine Chapel

International flights have been landing all weekend as all 133 cardinal‑electors arrive at Fiumicino Airport and settle into Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guest house that will serve as their temporary home during the vote. Dean of the College of Cardinals Giovanni Battista Re confirmed that every seat is now filled for the first General Congregation, set for the evening of May 7, 2025.

What Happens Inside the Conclave?

Time‑Honored Rituals Meet 21st‑Century Security

  • 4 votes a day after an initial single ballot on Day 1
  • Two‑thirds majority (≥ 90 votes) required to elect the new pope
  • Oaths of secrecy carry the penalty of immediate excommunication for leaks.

How Long Will It Take?

Modern conclaves average 3–4 days, thanks to tighter schedules and smaller electorates compared with medieval marathons.

Why This Conclave Is Different

Pope Francis appointed over 80 % of the voters, meaning reform‑minded cardinals hold significant sway. Italian Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin is considered a front‑runner, but Latin‑American, African, and Asian voices are louder than ever.

What It Means for Catholics Worldwide

The next pope will shape:

  1. Social teaching on migration, climate, and poverty
  2. Ecumenical dialogue with other Christian denominations
  3. Diplomacy in hotspots like Ukraine and the Middle East

Final Thoughts

As Rome buzzes with anticipation, keep an eye on the Sistine chimney—white smoke could billow as early as Thursday afternoon. Whether you’re Catholic or simply fascinated by history, the 2025 conclave is a front‑row seat to a 700‑year‑old drama playing out in real time.

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