Rome Prepares for the Conclave: Cardinals as ‘Rock Stars’, Rumors, Tiramisu, and Carbonara Before the Election of the New Pope

In Rome, preparations are reaching their peak as the cardinals will be locked in the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to elect the new Pope. On Monday, the 133 cardinal-electors arrived in the Italian capital. Journalists from around the world are eagerly trying to gather any hint about who might succeed Pope Francis. Meanwhile, the cardinals enjoy this week in Rome like “rock stars,” with all eyes on them. Rumors circulate faster than plates of tiramisu, while restaurants and cafes near the Vatican serve as the backdrop for the most secretive election in the world—the selection of the new Pope. Some journalists dodge the warm spring sun, while others seek shade. The goal remains the same: to spot the cardinals with their red hats leaving the Synod Hall and extract any information about the potential successor to Pope Francis. Marina Garcia Dieguez, a seasoned journalist stationed outside the Vatican, has learned the tricks used by cardinals to evade reporters. Each cardinal has their own strategy—some have cars waiting with tinted windows, while others remove their red hats and disappear into the crowd of tourists. Approximately 180 cardinals from across the globe gather daily in the Synod Hall to share their vision for the Church and agree on a candidate. Of these, 133 are eligible voters (two withdrew due to health reasons). Eight out of ten were appointed by Pope Francis, including 20 named just last December. Many come from regions that never had such representation before, like Myanmar, Haiti, and Rwanda. During the conclave, cardinals will be secluded in the modest Santa Marta guesthouse and the Sistine Chapel. They swear an oath of secrecy before each meeting and again when the election process begins. However, until they’re isolated, real discussions occur in Vatican-area cafes and restaurants. One favorite haunt is Al Passetto di Borgo, where cardinals allegedly plotted over carbonara and tiramisu during Benedict XVI’s election in 2005. The owner says his high-profile patrons only reveal they want the conclave to end quickly so they can return home. Another popular spot is Marcantonio, though fewer cardinals visit due to media pressure. Those aiming to spread rumors target experienced Vatican journalists, undermining candidates’ credibility by suggesting health issues or other controversies.