Simply put, a conclave is the assembly of cardinals that elects a pope. The word itself comes from the Latin "com" and "clavis," meaning "together" and "key," respectively – highlighting the absolute, behind-closed-doors secrecy with which the cardinals conduct their discussions and balloting.

At the end of a pope's reign, a secret vote takes place at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, Rome. Here is the election process for a new pope.