Florence

Florence is considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. The name Florence derived from the Latin word Florentia which means 'Flourishing town'. Florence was a manufacturing center for weaving wool into cloth. People in Florence used the currency called florin, a gold coin. Florence is also known for being a banking center since it was ruled by the Medici Family.

Medici Family History

In 1397, Giovanni De Medici started his headquarters in Florence. Because he was a citizen in Florence, he had to participate in public life. At one point, he held most of the political houses in Florence. After Giovanni passed away in 1429, his son, Cosimo de Medici, took over his family banking business. in the 1300's, the Medici family obtained wealth and political power through their success in commerce and banking. The Medici family supported Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo with their work.

Below is the Medici Family Tree

Florence, Italy

Map of Italy

Medici Family