How Long Will the Conclave Take?

The papal conclave, under Pope Gregory X's rules, has become remarkably swift, with popes Francis and Benedict XVI elected in just two days each. Yet centuries prior, monarchies influenced by church loyalty often prolonged elections for months. Post-1870, conclaves have shortened due to the end of the pope’s temporal power. Now, amid a new, diverse College of Cardinals, some fear this conclave might outlast recent selections like the one that elected Pope Francis in two days.