Rome during a Conclave: everything need to know

Rome, the captivating capital of Italy, draws millions of visitors each year with its ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and spiritual significance. However, a trip during a Conclave presents a distinct atmosphere and requires a bit of extra awareness since it is a truly unique and fascinating time to visit the Eternal City.

It's a period charged with history, tradition, and a palpable sense of anticipation and there are some things you need to know if your trip to the Eternal City coincides with this significant event.

If you are travelling to Rome and your trip coincides with the most significant event in the Catholic Church, here you will find what to expect and how to make the most of your visit during a Conclave.

A Conclave is the secretive gathering of the College of Cardinals in the Vatican to elect a new Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope and leader of the Catholic Church, after the previous pontiff dies or resigns. It takes place in Vatican City, usually within the Sistine Chapel, and can last from a few days to several weeks. For Catholics, it’s a deeply spiritual event. For visitors, it’s a rare and historic moment to witness the Church in action. While the inner workings are private, the external signs and the general atmosphere in Rome are quite noticeable. As the movie The Conclave has showed to the world, the gathering of the College of Cardinals is a unique event with ancient traditions coming from past centuries and a secretive election that must be respected even in the new millennium.

The next Conclave will start on the 7th of May 2025 to elect the successor of Pope Francis.

Since the Sistine Chapel is the place where the Cardinals cast their votes, it is strictly off-limits to the public. The Michelangelo's masterpiece will be open again after the election of the new Pope and all the items, including the traditional cast iron stove (which burns the election cards), will be removed. Saint Peter's Basilica usually remains open for prayer, though potentially with adjusted hours or access points, while other areas within the Vatican Museums might also experience temporary closures or restricted access. Our suggestion is to check the official Vatican website for the latest updates. On the other hand, Saint Peter's Square remains always open since it is the place where pilgrims, locals, and also journalists wait for the election of the new Pope.

On the occasion of Conclave security around Vatican City, particularly Saint Peter's Square and the surrounding areas, is significantly increased. Tourists must expect more police presence, road closures, and potentially bag checks. While this is for security purposes, these checks can impact travel plans and access to certain areas. In addition, the significant international media presence in Rome during a Conclave and road closures could increase the pedestrian traffic around the Vatican area.

During the Conclave, the world watches for the telltale signs of a successful election coming from the Sistine Chapel: black smoke (fumata nera) from a chimney indicates no decision, while white smoke (fumata bianca) signals the election of a new Pope. Traditionally, St. Peter’s Square becomes a focal point, a place where people wait for the white smoke, a living, breathing amphitheater of emotion, prayer, and camera shutters. As soon as the white smoke appears on the chimney, the bells of all Rome's churches ring simultaneously and large numbers of believers, tourists, and the curious run to Saint Peter's Square to witness the Church’s most iconic moment: the announcement from Saint Peter's loggia of Habemus Papam! (in Latin, "We have a Pope”).

Despite some potential inconveniences, witnessing Rome during a Conclave is a unique historical experience unlike any other. Approaching the situation with respect and flexibility, you can still have a memorable and meaningful trip to the Eternal City during the Conclave, feeling the atmosphere of being in the center of the world and part of a centuries-old tradition.