The Medici

The Medici were a powerful and influential family in Renaissance Italy, particularly in Florence during the 15th and 16th centuries. They were significant bankers and patrons of the arts, supporting famous artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, which helped foster the cultural rebirth known as the Renaissance. The Medici's wealth allowed them to wield political power, and several family members became rulers of Florence and even popes. Their legacy is marked by advancements in art, architecture, and science, contributing to the cultural heritage of Europe.