The Frescobaldi : A Florentine Family

The Frescobaldi are a prominent Florentine noble family that have been involved in the political, sociological, and economic history of Tuscany since the Middle Ages;. Originating in the Val di Pesa in the Chianti, they appear holding important posts in Florence in the twelfth century. In the struggles of Guelfs and Ghibellines the family was split between the Guelf factions of Bianchi and Neri, of whom only the Bianchi remained in Florence. The Frescobaldi played a significant part not just in the history of Florence and Italy, but in that of Europe, too. They lent vast sums of money to the kings of England, obtaining in exchange positions of power and prestige in the Kingdom. The history of the Frescobaldi is interwoven with the history of Florence, from the mediaeval struggles for supremacy in the city between the factions of the followers of the pope and the emperor to the conflict between supporters and opponents of Medici rule at the height of the Renaissance... The book is richly illustrated with artwork, photographs and more.