Duke of Milan

The Duke of Milan was a ruler of the Duchy of Milan, a significant Italian city-state during the Renaissance period. The title was held by various aristocrats who governed with political and military authority, shaping the region's culture, economy, and alliances. Notable figures include Ludovico Sforza, who sponsored arts like Leonardo da Vinci, and the title symbolized regional power and influence in northern Italy. The duchy was often involved in complex wars and diplomacy among larger Italian and European powers, reflecting its strategic importance in medieval and Renaissance Italy.