1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
ReligionVatican

Conclave: How is a new pope chosen?

00:55

This browser does not support the video element.

Shani Rozanes
April 22, 2025

Pope Francis has died after 12 years serving as the head of the Catholic Church. Soon after his funeral, cardinals from all over the world will gather at the Vatican to start the process of choosing his successor. It is an old ritual called a papal conclave.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW