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.
In context
Also in 1378 (4 other events on record)
- Urban VI elected amid Roman riot · Europe · Religion
- Ciompi Revolt: Florentine wool workers seize the city · Europe · Politics
- Charles IV dies in Prague · Europe · Politics
- Ming builds the Great Wall's eastern sections · East Asia · Politics
Before and after in Europe
Before and after in Religion
Era
Late Middle Ages (1301–1500), one of 874 events from that era on Saeculum.