: Some fringe groups, such as "Benevacantists," claim current popes like Francis are invalid, effectively calling them antipopes based on disputes over papal resignations.
: Small traditionalist groups occasionally elect their own "popes" (such as the late Pope Michael ), though they lack the significant following or political recognition of historical antipopes. antipope
Are you interested in a of the papacy, or Antipope | Definition, Examples, List, & Facts - Britannica : Some fringe groups, such as "Benevacantists," claim
The history of antipopes spans over a millennium, from the early church to the mid-15th century. : This was the most famous era for
: This was the most famous era for antipopes (1378–1417), during which the church was split between rival popes in Rome and Avignon, France. At one point, there were even three simultaneous claimants. Why They Arose Antipopes typically came to power for one of three reasons:
: Confusion or illegalities during a papal election (conclave) could lead to multiple people claiming the seat. Modern Usage