Pope Clement X

Pope Clement X, born Emilio Bonaventura Altieri on 13 July 1590 in Rome, emerged from the Papal nobility to become a significant figure in the Catholic Church. He received a doctorate in law and held various ecclesiastical positions, including Bishop of Camerino and Superintendent of the Papal Exchequer. His extensive experience within the Church paved the way for his election as Pope on 29 April 1670, following a lengthy conclave that lasted four months.

During his pontificate, which lasted until his death on 22 July 1676, Clement X was known for his efforts to canonize and beatify numerous saints, fostering good relations among Christian nations. He took notable steps to preserve the Altieri family legacy by adopting the Paoluzzi family, showcasing his commitment to family and heritage. Despite his advanced age, he celebrated the fourteenth jubilee of the holy year in 1675, demonstrating his dedication to the Church.

One of his more controversial actions was the establishment of a new tax in Rome, which led to tensions with ambassadors and cardinals. Additionally, in October 1674, he suspended the proceedings of the Portuguese Inquisition, challenging the methods used against the New Christians, a move that highlighted his progressive stance on religious matters. Throughout his papacy, he created twenty cardinals, including Pietro Francesco Orsini, who would later ascend to the papacy as Benedict XIII.