The Medici were one of Italy’s most storied families. They ruled Florence and, later, Tuscany in the 15th–18th century and promoted the Italian Renaissance. In addition, they provided the Roman Catholic Church with four popes (Leo X, Clement VII, Pius IV, and Leo XI), and two Medici women (Catherine and Marie) became queens of France.
What was Lorenzo de’ Medici’s family like?
Why is Lorenzo de’ Medici significant?
Known as Lorenzo the Magnificent, the Florentine statesman and arts patron is considered the most brilliant of the Medici. He ruled Florence for some 20 years in the 15th century, during which time he brought stability to the region. In the field of arts, he notably advanced the careers of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.