Antipope -

: The term is also found in literature, such as Robert Rankin’s fantasy novel The Antipope .

: Most historians and the Vatican's official directory recognize approximately 37 antipopes throughout history. antipope

: Secular rulers often installed their own candidates to gain political leverage. : The term is also found in literature,

While the era of major antipopes ended in the 15th century, the term still appears in contemporary contexts: antipope

: Saint Hippolytus of Rome is generally cited as the first, reigning in opposition to Pope Callixtus I starting in A.D. 217.

: Felix V (1439–1449) is widely considered the last significant historical antipope.