• The longest conclave in history lasted nearly three years (1,006 days), leading to the term 'conclave' meaning 'under lock and key'.
• The rules governing conclaves have evolved over time, including restrictions on cardinals' meals and the emphasis on secrecy.
• Historically, there have been antipopes and periods of schism within the Catholic Church, resolved by councils and elections of universally accepted pontiffs.

The article from AP News offers a collection of interesting facts about the history of papal conclaves, the process by which the Catholic Church elects a new pope. It covers various aspects, including the historical duration of conclaves, the evolution of rules and procedures, the challenges faced by cardinals, and notable events such as the Western Schism and the emergence of antipopes. The piece provides context and trivia surrounding this centuries-old tradition.

• What: The election of a new pope through a process called a conclave, involving cardinals meeting in a secret location to vote.
• Who: Key individuals include cardinals, popes (e.g., Gregory X, Julius II, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Francis), and antipopes (e.g., Clement VII, Benedict XIII). Historians like Miles Pattenden and archeologists like Elena Cangiano are also mentioned.
• When: The article spans from the 13th century (longest conclave) to recent conclaves (2005, 2013) and includes historical events like the Western Schism (1378-1417).
• Where: Locations include the Vatican City (Sistine Chapel, Domus Santa Marta), Viterbo, Rome, and other cities where conclaves were held historically.

The article provides a historical overview of papal conclaves, highlighting their evolution and the various factors that have influenced them. The length of conclaves, the implementation of secrecy measures, and the challenges faced by cardinals all demonstrate the complex nature of papal elections throughout history. The existence of antipopes and the Western Schism reveal periods of division and conflict within the Catholic Church. The inclusion of details about the cardinals' living conditions underscores the human element within this significant religious process.

Everything is conducive to an awareness of the presence of God, in whose sight each person will one day be judged.

The article paints a picture of the papal conclave as a dynamic and evolving process. From the extreme lengths of past conclaves to the implementation of strict rules and secrecy, the election of a new pope has been shaped by historical events, political influences, and the desire for divine guidance. While modern conclaves are shorter and more comfortable, they remain a significant and secretive event in the Catholic Church.