diff --git a/setup.py b/setup.py
--- a/setup.py
+++ b/setup.py
@@ -4,6 +4,9 @@ from rhodecode import __platform__
 
 py_version = sys.version_info
 
+if py_version < (2, 5):
+    raise Exception('RhodeCode requires python 2.5 or later')
+
 requirements = [
         "Pylons==1.0.0",
         "WebHelpers>=1.2",