How did Benedetto Caetani become Pope Boniface VIII after Celestine V resigned?
Benedetto Caetani, a prominent cardinal, became Pope Boniface VIII following the resignation of Celestine V in December 1294.12
It was Caetani who played a pivotal role in the transition by confirming Celestine V’s desire to abdicate the papacy. Celestine, who had struggled with the administrative burdens of the office and wished to return to his life as a hermit, issued a papal bull affirming the right of a pope to resign before stepping down on December 13, 1294. Following this resignation, Caetani was elected as his successor.231
After assuming the papacy, Boniface VIII found it necessary to keep his predecessor under supervision to prevent questions regarding the legality of the resignation, eventually interning him in the castle of Fumone, where Celestine V died.23