Palazzo dei Papi di Viterbo.
The election dragged on for months.
Three of the original twenty cardinals actually died of old age.
The drastic actions did absolutely nothing to break the deadlock, which dragged on for another year.
Finally, in August 1271, the Cardinals decided to appoint a committee of six to negotiate a settlement.
Teobaldo Visconti became Pope Gregory X on 1 September 1271.
During the conclave, no cardinal was to receive any revenue from the Church.
Unfortunately, Gregory Xs successor, Pope Adrian V, found the regulations too strict and had them abolished.
Today, the papal election takes place in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican.
They are not allowed to contact with the outside world, except for medical emergencies.
A candidate has to secure a majority of two-thirds to be elected pope.
After a further seven ballots, there shall be a day of prayer, reflection and dialogue.
If the smoke is black, kit indicates failure.
If the smoke is white, it means a new pope has been chosen.
Palazzo dei Papi di Viterbo.
