1455 papal conclave and election of Callixtus III (1455)

Following the death of Pope Nicholas V on 24 March 1455, the College of Cardinals convened in the Apostolic Palace. After a brief conclave, they elected Cardinal Alfonso de Borja as a compromise candidate. He took the name Callixtus III and was crowned on 20 April 1455.

Episodes

Background and detail

Death of Nicholas V. Pope Nicholas V, born Tommaso Parentucelli, served as head of the Catholic Church from 1447 until his death on 24 March 1455. His pontificate included diplomatic efforts such as the Concordat of Vienna, though it was marked by the earlier fall of Constantinople in 1453.

The 1455 Conclave. The conclave ran from 4 to 8 April 1455. It was the first held in the Apostolic Palace and introduced accessus voting, allowing cardinals to shift support to candidates already receiving votes. This procedural innovation reflected practices from the Roman Senate.

Election of Callixtus III. Cardinal Alfonso de Borja was elected on 8 April 1455. Described as a compromise candidate, he was chosen at an advanced age. He had previously participated in the 1447 conclave that elected Nicholas V and served as a tutor to the son of King Alfonso V.

Coronation. Alfonso de Borja was crowned Pope Callixtus III on 20 April 1455. The ceremony was performed by Cardinal Protodeacon Prospero Colonna. His papacy, dated from the 8 April election, continued until his death in August 1458.

People involved

Sources

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