The Pazzi Conspiracy

The Pazzi Conspiracy was a plot in 1478 aimed at overthrowing Florence’s ruling family, the Medici, led by the Pazzi family. They recruited allies and planned to kill Lorenzo de’ Medici and his brother during a church service. The plan succeeded in killing the brother, Giuliano, but Lorenzo survived. The conspiracy failed to overthrow Medici power and led to brutal reprisals against the Pazzi family and their supporters. This event intensified Medici dominance in Florence and is seen as a pivotal moment in the city’s political history during the Renaissance.