Florence was founded in 59 BC by Julius Caesar and it was named Florentia which flourishing and it was made the Haven for the retired Military veterans. As the city was situated between the northern Italy and Rome it became a major travel route between them and it grew from a small village to a big commercial hub that can seen during Europe tour. In 3rd century AD it was announced as a capital of Tuscany. By 4th century, the Byzantine and German Ostrogoths were in a race to control Italy and it was continuously fought over in Florence causing destruction and the population decreased to 1000. Later in the 6th Century peace was restored under the rule of Lombard and it prospered under Charlemagne in 774. By 10th century, Florence became a prosperous city and in 1252 it introduced its own gold coins called ‘Florin’ and it became a powerful hub of Banks and it opened branches across the whole of Europe. Medici family ruled the banks from behind the scene. The family became powerful from late 14th century to 18th century. The Renaissance The flourishment of Florence attracted more immigrants and set a stage of a movement called Renaissance. Florence has a reputed place for innovation in 14th to 16th Century. There were dozens of artists in the city. They exported huge amount of wool and Textiles in Europe. Some of the most influential artists came to Florence which included Michelangelo(Born 1475 – Died 1564), Leonardo Da Vinci(Born 1452 – Died 1519). Their Frescos, Sculpture, Architectures and paintings are still preserved in the museums and are a major attraction for tourist in the present days that must be included in europe tour packages. Florence was ruled by Medici family behind the scene although it was a democratic government. Even the pope used to be under the Medici family as they were the biggest bankers and used to handle the fund of the church. Later in 1494 Charles VIII of France invaded Italy entering from Tuscany to claim the throne of Naples. Piero had to sign treaty which had humiliating conditions with the French King Charles VIII. Because of this Piero was sent into exile by the people of Florence and the period of Medici Family ended with the making of Republican Government. This was the start of Renaissance in Florence from 14th century and later it was spread through whole Europe. Renaissance was a bridge between middle ages and modern history. There were lots and lots of discoveries during the period of Renaissance and can be better explained on Europe tour.
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