Antipope | 100% Fresh |

An is a person who claims or exercises the office of Bishop of Rome and leader of the Catholic Church in opposition to the canonically elected pope . Historically, antipopes emerged during periods of ecclesiastical or political turmoil, often supported by rival church factions or secular rulers like kings and emperors who sought control over the papacy. Key Historical Facts

: Most historians and the Vatican's official directory recognize approximately 37 antipopes throughout history. antipope

: 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: An is a person who claims or exercises

: Internal church disagreements over theology or discipline sometimes led to the election of a rival. : This was the most famous era for

: Secular rulers often installed their own candidates to gain political leverage.

: 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.