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.

The papal conclave is one of the oldest and most important traditions in the Catholic church. Most popes don’t resign, leaving the papacy vacant only when they die. Do you know how many papal conclaves there have been in your lifetime?