The Probert Encyclopaedia of General Information

CONCLAVE

A conclave is the place where the cardinals assemble for the election of the pope. The term is also applied to the electoral assembly of the cardinals themselves. Pope Gregory X, whose election had been delayed for three years, established in the council at Lyons in 1274 the regulations of the conclave. The cardinals are shut up together in a particular suite of apartments in the palace where the pontiff dies, and they are supposed to have no communication with the outside world during the period of the election. The companion, either lay or clerical, whom the cardinal is allowed to take with him into the conclave during the election of a pope is called a conclavist. The office is one of great delicacy and trust.
Research Conclave