Italian nobility

Italian nobility historically comprised aristocratic families holding titles such as duke, marquis, count, or baron, often linked to land ownership and political privilege. These noble houses played significant roles in governance, culture, and society, especially during the Renaissance and before Italy's unification in the 19th century. Nobility was often inherited, reinforced by lineage and social networks, yet its influence declined with modern legal and political changes. Today, noble titles are mainly symbolic, with no legal privileges, though they remain part of Italy’s cultural heritage and history.