The Battle of the Department of Mysteries was the first major conflict of the Second Wizarding War. It took place on 18 June, 1996, after Lord Voldemort lured Harry Potter and five of his fellow Dumbledore's Army members to the Department of Mysteries in an effort to obtain the prophecy concerning his possible defeat. The battle resulted in Voldemort's return being made public, the Ministry of Magic finally taking action against his rising power, and the start of open warfare.