Conclave duration varies. Some last just a day; others take longer. The shortest on record was in 1503 when Pope Julius II was elected within hours. The longest took nearly three years (1268–1271).

In February 2015 conservation began of the Hall of Constantine, 1517-24, the last and largest of the four rooms in the former apartments of Pope Julius II that Raphael had spent 12 years decorating.

Post-1274, the shortest conclave is the 1503 election of Pope Julius II, elected in under ten hours. In modern days, conclaves typically last under a few days; Pope Francis was elected after just ...

The shortest, in 1503, lasted just a few hours, leading to the election of Pope Julius II. Cardinals attend a mass at the St Peter's basilica before the start of the conclave on March 12 ...

“This is not my art,” was Michelangelo’s succinct response when Pope Julius II asked him to paint a simple, geometric composition with the 12 apostles on the ceiling of the Sistine Chape ...

The Latest: Pope Francis Lies in State Ahead of His Funeral, Set for Saturday Pope Francis ’ funeral has been set for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, and a viewing of his body will ...

They have protected the Pope since 1506, when Julius II first hired Swiss mercenaries for his personal protection. Image source, Getty His coffin differs in design from those used in previous ...

This tradition began in 1506 when Pope Julius II hired them for protection. They’re easy to spot in their brightly striped uniforms. To join, a man must be Swiss, Catholic, between 19 and 30 ...

Vatican media noted that this musical tradition dates back to 1513, when Pope Julius II reorganized the ensemble that continues to preserve, “note by note, the beauty of the liturgy.” ...

The Vatican noted that this musical tradition dates back to 1513, when Pope Julius II reorganized the ensemble that continues to preserve “note by note, the beauty of the liturgy.” ...