Florence
Italy’s leading cultural center during Renaissance; important for trade and commerce;dominated by Medici’s
Medici Family
aristocratic Italian family of powerful merchants and bankers who ruled Florence for over 300 years in the 15th century. The Medici’s were second only to the Papacy in power duing the Renaissance.
Giovanni Medici
a 14th century merchant and banker whose family excelled in business and dominated the political scene in Florence for over 300 years. When he died in 1429 he left behind a patronage for the arts, an immense fortune, and a son named Cosimo Medici.
Cosimo Medici
Ruled from 1429 to 1464. By 1434 he consolidated power for himself and his family in Florence. He clung to his position as a private citizen, but it was clear to all that he ruled the city from behind the scences.
Piero Medici
Cosimo’s son who ruled Florence from 1464 to 1468.
Lorenzo Medici
Cosimo’s grandson who ruled from 1469 to 1492. He was also known as ‘Il magnifico.’ He was an Italian statesman and scholar who supported many artists and humanists including Michelangelo, Leonardo and Botticelli
Girolamo Savonarola
a Dominican friar in Florence who preached against sin and corruption and gained a large following; he expelled the Medici family from Florence, but was later excommunicated and executed for criticizing the Pope.
