Western Schism begins with rival pope at Fondi
September 1378
The dissident cardinals declared Urban VI's election invalid and chose the Genevan Robert as Clement VII at the town of Fondi. He immediately retreated to Avignon. Latin Christendom now had two popes simultaneously, each excommunicating the other and demanding obedience. The schism would last thirty-nine years and badly damage papal authority.
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