The Papal Conclave of 1644: Election of Innocent X

by HistoriaRomana | Oct 11, 2026 | History, Renaissance Rome, Papal History

The year 1644 marked a pivotal moment in Roman history, as the city braced for a papal election following the death of Pope Urban VIII. This period was characterized by intense political maneuvering, as powerful cardinal families vied for influence and control over the Holy See. The Papal Conclave of 1644, convened to choose Urban VIII’s successor, unfolded against a backdrop of European conflict and internal Roman strife, particularly stemming from the immense wealth and power accumulated by Urban VIII’s Barberini relatives. The subsequent election of Giovanni Battista Pamphili, who took the name Innocent X, was not merely a spiritual decision but a deeply entrenched political negotiation that would redefine alliances and reshape the Roman landscape for decades to come, bringing a new era of patronage and governance to the Eternal City.

The Legacy of Urban VIII and the Barberini

Pope Urban VIII, born Maffeo Barberini, reigned for 21 years (1623–1644), leaving an indelible mark on Rome and the Papacy. His pontificate was notable for extensive building projects, including the completion of the Palazzo Barberini and contributing to St. Peter’s Basilica, famously stripping bronze from the Pantheon for Baldacchino. However, his rule was also characterized by nepotism, enriching his family, the Barberini, to an unprecedented degree.

Barberini Power and Wealth

The Barberini nephews, especially Cardinal Francesco Barberini, Cardinal Antonio Barberini the Elder, and Cardinal Antonio Barberini the Younger, wielded immense political and financial power. This accumulation of wealth and influence led to widespread resentment among other Roman noble families and within the College of Cardinals, creating deep divisions that would heavily influence the upcoming conclave. The War of Castro, fought against the Duchy of Parma, further drained papal finances and exacerbated these tensions, casting a long shadow over Urban VIII’s final years and setting the stage for a contentious succession.

The Conclave’s Intrigues and Factions

The Papal Conclave of 1644 commenced on August 9, 1644, with 54 cardinals entering the Vatican. The atmosphere was thick with rivalries, primarily between the Barberini faction, desperate to protect their family’s interests and assets, and the “flying squadron” (Squadrone Volante), a group of independent cardinals who sought to elect a pope free from dominant familial influence.

Cardinal Mazarin’s Influence

Adding another layer of complexity was the influence of foreign powers. Cardinal Mazarin, the chief minister of France, exerted significant pressure, opposing any candidate perceived as pro-Spanish. The Spanish cardinals, in turn, sought to block any French-allied candidates. The conclave was prolonged and fraught with illness, with several cardinals succumbing to the oppressive August heat and unsanitary conditions. Ballots were cast repeatedly, but no candidate could secure the two-thirds majority amidst the fiercely competing interests. The political maneuvering extended beyond the confines of the conclave, with ambassadors and agents of European powers actively lobbying cardinals.

The Election of Giovanni Battista Pamphili as Innocent X

After a grueling 37 days, a compromise candidate emerged: Giovanni Battista Pamphili. He was a Roman cardinal from a prominent family, but not associated with the Barberini or any specific foreign power. On September 15, 1644, Cardinal Pamphili was elected, taking the name Innocent X. His election represented a shift in power dynamics within the Roman Curia.

A New Papal Lineage

Innocent X was not considered a strong partisan, making him acceptable to various factions weary of the deadlock. His election was met with a mix of relief and apprehension; relief that a new pope had been chosen, and apprehension from the Barberini, who correctly anticipated a challenge to their immense power. Pamphili’s background as a skilled jurist and diplomat suggested a reign focused on legal and administrative reform, a stark contrast to the more martial and artistic inclinations of his predecessor. This marked the beginning of the Pamphili family’s ascendancy in Roman politics and art patronage, notably through his sister-in-law, Olimpia Maidalchini.

Innocent X’s Early Papacy and the Barberini Family

Upon his election, Pope Innocent X immediately moved to address the perceived abuses of his predecessor. One of his first actions was to initiate investigations into the Barberini family’s finances.

The Barberini Trials

Accusations of embezzlement and corruption led to legal proceedings against Urban VIII’s nephews. Fearing prosecution, Cardinal Antonio Barberini the Younger and Cardinal Francesco Barberini fled Rome to France, seeking protection from Cardinal Mazarin. This move intensified the diplomatic tensions between the Papacy and France, as Innocent X demanded their return. The conflict surrounding the Barberini became a defining feature of Innocent X’s early pontificate, demonstrating his resolve to restore financial integrity to the papal states and curb the unchecked power of papal families. His efforts ultimately led to a period of reduced nepotism, though the practice never entirely disappeared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the main contenders in the Papal Conclave of 1644?

While many cardinals were technically eligible, the primary struggle was between the powerful Barberini faction, representing the deceased Pope Urban VIII’s family, and a coalition of cardinals seeking a more independent papacy, often influenced by Spanish or French interests.

What role did the Barberini family play in the Papal Conclave of 1644?

The Barberini family, having gained immense wealth and power under Urban VIII, sought to elect a pope who would protect their interests and prevent investigations into their finances. Their influence, though substantial, ultimately led to a backlash from other cardinals.

How long did the Papal Conclave of 1644 last?

The Papal Conclave of 1644 was a lengthy affair, lasting 37 days, from August 9 to September 15, amidst intense heat and political deadlock, before Giovanni Battista Pamphili was finally elected as Pope Innocent X.

What was the immediate aftermath for the Barberini family after Innocent X’s election?

Following Innocent X’s election, the Barberini family faced investigations into their finances due to accusations of corruption during Urban VIII’s pontificate. Several prominent Barberini nephews fled to France to avoid prosecution.

What was the significance of Innocent X’s election?

Innocent X’s election signaled a shift away from the unchecked nepotism of Urban VIII’s reign and aimed to restore greater financial accountability to the Papacy. It also marked the rise of the Pamphili family’s influence in Rome.