The Renaissance began in the powerful city-states of northern Italy in the 14th century.

Cities like Florence, Venice, Milan, and Genoa grew wealthy from Mediterranean trade, manufacturing, and banking.

This wealth created a new urban upper class of merchants and bankers who became patrons of the arts.

Unlike the rest of feudal Europe, these city-states were independent and developed their own republican or ducal governments.

Their location in Italy provided a direct connection to the ruins and heritage of the ancient Roman Empire, which served as a major inspiration.

Competition among the city-states for prestige fueled a boom in artistic and architectural commissions.

Wealthy families, such as the Medici in Florence, used patronage of the arts to display their power and influence.

The urban, commercial environment fostered a secular worldview and an interest in worldly human achievement.

These city-states attracted talented artists, scholars, and architects from all over Italy.

The unique political, economic, and social environment of the Italian city-states provided the fertile ground for the Renaissance to flourish.