The film Conclave has illuminated the dramatic process behind papal elections, yet this ritual has been ongoing for centuries, yielding fascinating trivia. Historical studies reveal that the longest conclave, lasting 1,006 days, occurred in the 13th century when Pope Clement IV's successor was determined. Frustrated locals in Viterbo locked the cardinals inside, inspiring the term conclave. Gregory X later enforced meal restrictions to avoid such lengthy elections. Interestingly, the shortest conclaves took place before 1274; today, following a dead pope's demise, voting must be postponed for a minimum of 10 days.
In the 13th century, it took almost three years - 1,006 days to be exact - to choose Pope Clement IV's successor, making it the longest conclave in history.
The term conclave comes from 'under lock and key' because the cardinals who were meeting in Viterbo took so long the town's frustrated citizens locked them in.
Gregory X decreed in 1274 that cardinals would only get 'one meal a day' if the conclave stretched beyond three days, and only 'bread, water and wine' if it went beyond eight.
Before 1274, there were times when a pope was elected the same day as the death of his predecessor.
Collection
[
|
...
]