Join history buff, Mike Corradi on a journey through time as he unfolds the rich tapestry of the Italian peninsula's history. This chronological story starts with the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and leads you through the most iconic events, influential figures, and cultural milestones that have shaped Italy into what we see today. It’s all serious stuff, but we do take time to stop and laugh at battles over a bucket, rude names, naughty priests and popes, rabbits winning sieges, doves winning battles, bits of dead bodies as tokens of love, and whole series of real historical silly situations that no comedian could think of.
Come along every other week for a compelling and insightful glimpse into A History of Italy.
📻 Siste episoder av A History of Italy
Her er de nyeste episodene tilgjengelige via RSS-feeden:
199 – The dying gasp of the Fiorentine Republic and the first duke (00:21:41)
Episode SummaryWith Giovanni dalle Bande Nere gone, we return to Florence to witness the dramatic collapse of the centuries-old Florentine Republic and the emergence of Medici princely rule. Against the backdrop of the Sack of Rome, religious extremism, political infighting, and imperial intervention, this episode follows Florence’s final republican experiment and introduces one of its most controversial rulers: Alessandro de’ Medici, the first Duke of Florence.Key Topics CoveredThe Aftermath of the Sack of Rome (1527)Pope Clement VII’s humiliation after the Sack of Rome by mutinous imperial landsknechts and the blow to Medici prestige.The pope’s political failures, including his looming clash with Henry VIII and the broader collapse of Medici papal authority.Florence’s growing disillusionment with Medici “informal rule” and the sense that the moment for change had arrived.The Republican Revival in FlorenceEarly unrest during the passage of imperial troops and the damage to Michelangelo’s David.The fall of Cardinal Silvio Passerini’s authority after the Sack of Rome.The decisive confrontation involving Clarice de’ Medici and Filippo Strozzi that triggered the Medici flight from the city.The rise of a new republican government under Gonfalonier Niccolò Capponi.Factional divisions among the anti-Medici forces, from aristocratic moderates to radical, Savonarola-inspired religious extremists.The extraordinary moment when Jesus Christ was proclaimed King of Florence in February 1529.Siege, Resistance, and the End of the RepublicThe Treaty of Barcelona (1529) between Clement VII and Charles V, sealing Florence’s fate.The imperial siege of Florence and Michelangelo’s role—brief and reluctant—in strengthening the city’s defenses.Internal betrayal and wavering leadership under Malatesta Baglioni.Florentine defiance through ritual and sport: frozen-Arno games, Carnival football in Santa Croce, and cannon fire aimed at celebration.Capitulation in August 1530 after famine and plague, and Clement VII’s intervention to prevent a sack.The definitive death of the Florentine Republic.The Rise of Alessandro de’ MediciAlessandro’s appointment as Gonfalonier for life and later Duke of Florence, with authority imposed by imperial decree rather than civic choice.Competing theories about his parentage and his nickname il Moro.The...
198 - Giovanni dalle Bande Nere part 3: Pietro Aretino and shot down in a blaze of glory (00:19:42)
In this episode, we trace the final chapters in the life of Giovanni dalle Bande Nere, the last great condottiero of Renaissance Italy, and his unlikely, enduring friendship with the scandalous writer Pietro Aretino. From political satire in Rome to blood-soaked battlefields in Lombardy and Umbria, this story intertwines art, warfare, ambition, and the sweeping changes that transformed European conflict forever.Key Topics CoveredPietro Aretino: Scandal, Satire & SurvivalEarly life in Arezzo, his refusal of his father’s name, and his rise as a sharp-tongued writer and showman in the papal court of Leo X.The “talking statues” of Rome—especially Pasquino—and how Aretino’s biting pasquinades shaped political discourse.His alignment with Giulio de’ Medici (future Pope Clement VII), flight after the election of Hadrian VI, and continued clashes with papal officials.The scandal of the erotic engravings of Giulio Romano, ensuing arrests, and Aretino’s provocative “lustful sonnets.”His stabbing in Rome, survival, and eventual wanderings through Mantua and finally Venice, where he spent the last decades of his colourful life.His literary legacy, including La Cortigiana and the Ragionamenti, with their unfiltered depictions of sex, society, and the hypocrisy of his age.Giovanni dalle Bande Nere: Rise, Glory, and Decline of the CondottieriGiovanni’s campaigns under various Italian powers and his growing reputation as a fearless and impulsive commander.His service to Pope Leo X and later Hadrian VI, including action against the Baglioni in Umbria and the dramatic siege at Passignano.Giovanni’s early brushes with imperial interest—and his surprising decision to instead enter French service under Francis I.The Battle of Bicocca (1522): a turning point in military history marking the decline of heavy cavalry and mercenary companies in the face of firearms and artillery.Giovanni’s wounding at Pavia and the involvement of two remarkable physicians: Berengario da Carpi and Abraham of Mantua.His turbulent finances, reckless habits, and the selling of Aulla, which ended his dream of carving out a hereditary domain.Increasing tensions caused by his Black Bands as they created chaos across Tuscany and Emilia.The League of Cognac & Giovanni’s Final CampaignThe formation of the anti-imperial League of Cognac (1526): Italy and France united against Charles V.Giovanni’s renewed service—accompanied once more by Aretino—and widespread hopes that he might become the Italian hero capable of unifying the peninsula.Frustration with Duke Francesco della Rovere’s hesitant leadership and obstacles created by Italian rivalries, especially the Este of Ferrara.Giovanni’s last victory at Governolo near Mantua.His mortal wounding from a hidden sniper’s shot—ironically not from the artillery that was reshaping warfare—and the dramatic amputation performed by Dr. Abraham.Giovanni’s final days, the legendary accounts of his stoicism, and his death at just 28 years old.Aftermath & LegacyThe consequences of Giovanni’s death: the failure of the League of Cognac to stop the imperial advance and the catastrophic Sack of Rome in 1527.The continuation of the Black Bands under Pier Maria de’ Rossi—and Maria Salviati’s refusal to let young Cosimo join them as a mascot.Giovanni’s relocation from Mantua to Florence and his enduring presence in the city’s memory.A glimpse of his statue near the Uffizi, standing guard toward the Arno—a symbolic link to his son, Cosimo I, future Grand Duke of Tuscany.Why This Story...
197 - Giovanni of the Black Bands part II - The invincible very naughty boy (00:14:29)
Episode SummaryPicking up where we left off, Giovanni de’ Medici, son of Caterina Sforza and known to history as Giovanni of the Black Bands, continues his meteoric rise through the bloody and chaotic world of Renaissance warfare. Backed by a Medici pope and driven by his fierce loyalty to his men, Giovanni’s legend as a mercenary commander — and his troubles with the powerful Medici family — only grow.Host Mike Corradi unpacks the dangerous charisma, discipline, and contradictions of this larger-than-life condottiero: a man both feared and admired, ruthless yet loyal, reckless yet revered. From duels and executions to daring river crossings and political intrigue, this episode captures Giovanni at the height of his brutal glory.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeFrom Soldier to Legend – How Giovanni built the feared and disciplined Black Bands, and the tough standards that made them famous.Mercenary Life in Renaissance Italy – The realities of the “condotta” contract system, pay, discipline, and the fine line between soldiers and extortionists.A Code of Blood and Brotherhood – Giovanni’s uncompromising justice, personal duels, and brutal loyalty to his men.Exile and Recklessness – The duel with Camillo d’Appiano, murders in Florence, and yet another banishment for the restless Medici captain.Back to War – Giovanni’s return to papal service, his victories in the Marche, and the death of Pope Leo X — when his men finally took the name The Black Bands.The Battle of Vaprio (1521) – A daring river crossing, a sleeping French commander, and a crucial victory that spared Milan from destruction.Family and Bloodlines Again – Giovanni’s rescue of his stepsister Bianca Riario, echoing his mother Caterina’s courage.A New Companion – The arrival of Pietro Aretino, the scandalous writer and provocateur, whose influence on Giovanni we’ll soon discover.Key FiguresGiovanni de’ Medici “of the Black Bands” – The fearless condottiero whose name became a legend.Pope Leo X (Giovanni de’ Medici) – The Medici pope whose death marked a turning point for Giovanni’s army.Maria Salviati – Giovanni’s long-suffering wife, holding the family together in his absence.Prospero Colonna – The respected general under whom Giovanni fought, and a link to the fall of Cesare Borgia.Bianca Riario – Giovanni’s stepsister and loyal supporter, mirroring their mother’s fierce independence.Pietro Aretino – The notorious writer and satirist soon to become Giovanni’s newest and most scandalous ally.Highlights & InsightsThe discipline and image of the Black Bands as a symbol of military professionalism.Giovanni’s ruthless moral code: loyalty rewarded, betrayal punished — often fatally.The economic and moral contradictions of the condottieri trade.How personal honour and vendetta shaped early 16th-century warfare.The seeds of change as firearms began to replace the medieval knight.Closing ThoughtAs Giovanni’s fame and ferocity spread across Italy, his world teeters between the medieval and the modern — where mercenary loyalty, family honour, and the politics of popes collide.But with the arrival of a new friend — and bad influence — in Pietro Aretino, Giovanni’s story is about to take an even darker and more dangerous...
Call for contributions: episode 200 and 8th anniversary (00:01:48)
Hello You! for our 220th and 8th anniversary episode I thought I would invite contributions from the most VIP I could think of... YOU!So please send in a sound file or, if you don't feel like it, written message with a contribution, consideration, question, something i didn't mention or talk about enough.Please send by 31st December at the very latest.
196 - Giovanni of the Black Bands part 1: birth of a legend (00:17:42)
In this episode, we reunite with an old friend of the show — Caterina Sforza, the indomitable “Tigress of Forlì.” From her, we follow the turbulent and violent early life of her son, Giovanni de’ Medici, known as Il Gran Diavolo — the Great Devil — a man whose passions, battles, and excesses would shape the future of both the Sforza and Medicidynasties.We go through the tangled lineage and fiery temperament of one of Renaissance Italy’s most fascinating figures, tracing his path from rebellious youth to feared mercenary captain — and father to the first Grand Duke of Tuscany.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeThe Birth of “Il Gran Diavolo” (1498) – Giovanni’s birth to Caterina Sforza and Giovanni “Il Popolano” de’ Medici, and the prophetic words that would define his life.A Child of Chaos – His mother’s imprisonment by Cesare Borgia, his custody battles, and his violent childhood in Florence.Love, Blood, and Family Ties – The marriage to Maria Salviati uniting two Medici branches, and the domestic discord that followed.A Life of War and Vice – Duels, brothel fights, noble feuds, and the infamous bridge incident with the Orsini family.From Rogue to Commander – His rise through the papal ranks, battlefield heroics, and growing legend as a fearless condottiero.The Birth of Cosimo de’ Medici (1519) – The long-awaited heir who would one day found the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, born amid firelight celebrations across Italy.Key FiguresCaterina Sforza – The formidable mother whose courage and intellect defined Giovanni’s heritage.Giovanni de’ Medici “Il Popolano” – His father, from a cadet branch of the Medici family.Maria Salviati – His loyal but neglected wife.Giovanni della Stufa – The inseparable and scandalous companion.Pope Leo X – Patron, relative, and pivotal figure in Giovanni’s military career.Cosimo de’ Medici – The son who would carry the Medici name to new heights.Closing ThoughtFrom Caterina’s fierce independence to Giovanni’s reckless courage, this episode explores how blood, loyalty, and ambition intertwined in the crucible of Renaissance Italy — giving rise to a new generation destined to rule.
195 - Italian Wars 12 - The sack of Rome (again) and the end of the Sforza (1526 - 1530) (00:18:39)
In this episode, we pick up with Emperor Charles V consolidating his power over Italy after the Battle of Pavia (1525), where the French king Francis I was captured. The uneasy Italian states, including Pope Clement VII (Giulio de’ Medici), soon realized they had traded one master for another and formed the League of Cognac (1526) — an anti-imperial alliance including France, Venice, Florence, the Papal States, Milan, and under English protection, Henry VIII.The league’s formation was steeped in intrigue, false pretenses, and even secret dealings with the Turks. One of Charles’s own commanders, the Marquis of Pescara, pretended to side with the league while feeding the emperor inside information.Meanwhile, Giovanni dalle Bande Nere, the famed mercenary from the Medici-Sforza line, met his end in battle, struck by artillery supplied by the duplicitous Duke of Ferrara. His death marked the fading of Italy’s old mercenary tradition — and one of its most charismatic figures.When the pope attempted to back away from the alliance, Charles’s allies struck at Rome. The Sack of Rome (1527)followed — a devastating episode where mutinous Landsknechts, many of them fervent Lutherans, unleashed horrific violence on the city. For days, the Eternal City was ravaged: thousands slaughtered, churches desecrated, art looted, and the Renaissance dream in Rome brutally extinguished. Pope Clement VII barely escaped to Castel Sant’Angelo, thanks to the sacrifice of his Swiss Guards.In the chaos that followed, the Papal States collapsed, local lords reclaimed their territories, and the Medici were expelled from Florence, where a new republic was declared — with Jesus Christ symbolically named as its king.Ultimately, Charles V and Clement VII reconciled. Political realism won out over ideology. Through the Treaties of Barcelona (1529) and Bologna (1530), the Italian Wars entered a quieter phase, and imperial dominance over Italy was secured.We close with the final chapter of the Sforza dynasty: Francesco II Sforza, the last Duke of Milan, whose death in 1535marked the end of an era — from the rise of the free communes to the age of dynastic rule and foreign domination.
194 - The Italian Wars 11 - Medici pope to Medici pope - Battle of Pavia and Cognac (00:16:58)
After three episodes exploring the life of Leonardo da Vinci, we return to the turbulent stage of the Italian Wars. In this episode, we pick up in the early 1520s, a period shaped by papal politics, dynastic rivalries, and the shifting fortunes of France and Spain.Highlights include:The succession of popes after Leo X: Hadrian VI and Clement VII, and their struggles with reform, neutrality, and survival.The tug-of-war between France and Spain over Milan and Naples, with Spain ultimately gaining the upper hand.The dramatic Battle of Pavia (1525) — where Francis I of France was captured, changing the balance of power in Italy.Local legend and culinary history: the devil’s bridge of Pavia and the birth of zuppa alla pavese.The curious origin of the word lapalisiano (and its English cousin lapalissade), born from the death of French commander Jacques de La Palice.The rise of the League of Cognac (1526), a desperate coalition including France, the Papacy, Florence, and Venice against Charles V’s growing dominance.Along the way, we balance high politics with folklore, language quirks, and even a recipe or two — showing how wars, words, and food can be unexpectedly intertwined.
What has the printing press ever done for us? - Guest episode by the History of the Germans (00:38:18)
This is a guest episode by Dirk Hoffmann of the history of the German podcast, in which he tells us all about the impact of one of the most important inventions in human history, Gutenberg printing press.
Summer update (00:01:12)
Just to let you know I haven’t disappeared!
193 - Leonardo Da Vinci part 3 - twilight and legacy (00:20:43)
We explore the fascinating intersection between one of the world’s most famous relics and one of its most brilliant minds: Leonardo Da Vinci and the Shroud of Turin. Was Da Vinci somehow connected to this mysterious cloth? Could he have had the knowledge, access, and motive?🕯️ What You’ll Hear:The scientific investigation into the Shroud of Turin by the STURP team in 1978 and why their results only deepened the mystery.The carbon dating shock: how the Shroud was traced back not to 1st century Jerusalem, but medieval Europe.The curious photographic qualities of the Shroud and the theories involving camera obscura and silver sulphate.The intriguing possibility that Leonardo Da Vinci had the knowledge and opportunity to create such a sophisticated hoax.A dive into Leonardo’s Milan years: his commissions, his pupils (including the infamous Salaì), and unfinished masterpieces.The story behind The Last Supper, Vitruvian Man, and Leonardo’s move to the French court under Francis I.Reflections on Leonardo’s final years and his legacy as a polymath, artist, engineer, and relentless thinker.📍Locations & Highlights:Milan – Leonardo’s court years and commissions under Ludovico Sforza.Kraków – Home to the portrait of Cecilia Gallerani, Lady with an Ermine.Rome, Florence, Amboise – Key stages of Leonardo’s later life.🔍 Big Questions:Could Da Vinci have created the Shroud?What does the Vitruvian Man really represent?Was Salaì the inspiration behind some of Leonardo’s most enigmatic figures?
Leonardo Da Vinci part 2 - from Florence to Milan (00:19:00)
Early Life & EducationBorn illegitimate, Leonardo spent his youth sketching and observing nature.After moving to Florence, he entered the prestigious workshop of Andrea Verrocchio, where he learned not only painting but also the chemistry behind pigments and the mechanics of sculpture and engineering.🎨 Artistic BreakthroughsBy 1472, Leonardo was a member of the painters’ guild and began producing original works.His first known portrait was of Ginevra de’ Benci, and his collaboration on Verrocchio’s Baptism of Christ was so impressive that legend claims the master retired his brush.⚙️ Engineering MindsetLeonardo’s early involvement in lifting Brunelleschi’s massive dome sphere sparked a lifelong fascination with machines and mechanics.He later designed fantastical inventions, from machine guns and tanksto automated kitchen spits and submarines, many adapted from earlier ideas but improved with Leonardo's obsessive precision.🕵️ Scandal & RejectionIn 1476, Leonardo was accused (and acquitted) of sodomy, a charge that tainted his reputation.He also struggled with feelings of inadequacy due to his illegitimacy and lack of formal education, despite building a massive personal library.🤹 From Florence to MilanTired of Florence’s politics and unfinished commissions (like The Adoration of the Magi), Leonardo headed to Milan in 1481.His application letter to Ludovico Sforza emphasized military engineering over painting—positioning himself as the Renaissance’s ultimate multi-hyphenate.🎭 Court Entertainer & InventorIn Milan, Leonardo served as engineer, party planner, set designer, and even hairstylist.He dabbled in robotics, stage effects, and was inspired by thinkers like Ibn al-Haytham, whose work on optics laid the groundwork for Leonardo’s legendary camera obscura prank.👂 Tune in to discover how a restless, illegitimate boy turned into one of history’s most enigmatic polymaths—blending art, science, scandal, and a flair for the theatrical.
191 - Leonardo part 1 - birth of genius (00:18:29)
Starting from reasons to have a good cry, particularly concerning hair, we then head to Vinci, outside Florence in the mid 1400's to witness the birth and early childhood of Leonardo to see the start of some of the characteristics that will accompany him for the rest of his life. We hear about who gave and didn't give him affection and how his status as an illegitimate child was not all for the worst.Here is the link to our generous sponsorhttps://sterlinghe.com/
The Lion's last roar and a new religion blooming (1519 - 1521) (00:18:59)
In this episode, we dive into the dramatic papacy of Pope Leo X, exploring his efforts to secure Medici power, his architectural and social reforms in Rome, and his role in the early days of the Protestant Reformation. We track how his favoritism toward Florence shaped papal policy, the challenges he faced with Martin Luther, and the growing religious divide that would soon shake Europe to its core.We also spotlight Leo's political maneuvers in Italy, from annexing Urbino and Perugia to negotiating alliances with the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. And of course, there's a bit of colorful historical storytelling—like Machiavelli getting upstaged by two dogs, and the dramatic origins of Giovanni delle Bande Nere.🧠 What You’ll Learn:How Pope Leo X used the papacy to benefit the Medici family and Florence.His land reform policies that helped Roman farmers.The significance of the Duchy of Urbino and Perugia joining the Papal States.Why Martin Luther’s ideas gained traction—and how Leo X underestimated the Reformation.The impact of the printing press and vernacular language in spreading revolutionary ideas.The cultural comeback of Matilda of Tuscany and her symbolic power in German-Italian relations.The complex political chess match between Pope Leo X, Charles V, and Francis I of France.The death and legacy of Leo X—and how his actions paved the way for future Medici power play
189 - A German priest complains and a new emperor (00:15:44)
Of course! Here's the revised version of the summary show notes with key words and phrases bolded for emphasis:In this episode, we explore the turbulent political and religious landscape of Italy and Europe in the late 1510s—a pivotal prelude to the Protestant Reformation.🔹 Power Shifts in Europe1516: Ferdinand of Aragon dies; Charles of Habsburg inherits Spain.Peace between Charles and Francis I of France stabilizes Italy (Treaty of Noyon).Venice regains its former territories after years of conflict but remains battered by war, fire, and the growing threat from the Turks.🔹 Venetian & Papal AffairsVenice establishes its first Jewish ghetto in 1516.Pope Leo X (Medici) loses his brother Giuliano and elevates his nephew politically at great expense.A conspiracy against Pope Leo is uncovered; Cardinal Alfonso Petrucci is executed, and Leo reshapes the College of Cardinals.🔹 Money, Indulgences, and a BasilicaFacing financial strain from wars and plans to renovate St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo X turns to selling indulgences.Indulgences were marketed as spiritual compensation through charitable donations—often misunderstood as a full forgiveness of sins.🔹 Enter Martin LutherJohann Tetzel promotes indulgences in German lands.In response, Martin Luther writes the 95 Theses (1517), challenging the practice—marking the start of the Reformation.Initially respectful of the pope, Luther’s criticism intensifies over time.Protected by Frederick the Wise of Saxony, Luther avoids papal punishment.🔹 Political UndercurrentsPope Leo X hesitates to act against Luther due to the upcoming Holy Roman Emperor election.1519: Charles of Habsburg, already King of Spain, is elected Holy Roman Emperor, uniting a vast global empire.
187 - The balls are back in town - the Medici return (1503 - 1513) (00:19:13)
Among the many casualties of the battle of Garigliano was Piero de Medici, son of Lorenzo the Magnificent. Piero, previously exiled from Florence for his poor leadership during the invasion of Charles VIII in 1494, drowned while trying to escape the battle. His body was found and buried at Montecassino Abbey, under the protection of his brother, Cardinal Giovanni de Medici.Florence in TransitionAfter the fall of Girolamo Savonarola, Florence entered a period of unstable governance:Two major factions emerged: the Ottimati (traditional elite) and the Popolari (new rich).Despite nominal control by the Popolari, the Ottimati successfully blocked key reforms, such as the introduction of a property tax.Financially weakened by war, Florence made a bold move in 1502 by electing Piero Soderini as Gonfaloniere for life.Soderini, though from an elite family, implemented popular reforms, including capping wedding dowries and improving access to credit.Rise of Cardinal GiovanniThe Medici fortunes began to shift with Cardinal Giovanni de Medici:Tonsured at the age of 8, and made a cardinal at 13 through the diplomatic work of Lorenzo the Magnificent.Giovanni loved classical literature, music, and was known for his love of food.After a brief exile, he returned to Rome, took residence at Palazzo Madama, and regained political influence under Pope Julius II (Giuliano della Rovere).The Return to FlorenceFollowing the War of the League of Cambrai, opportunity struck:In 1512, Giovanni leveraged papal and Spanish military support to pressure Florence.After the brutal Sack of Prato, panic erupted in Florence, and cries of "The Balls!" (a reference to the Medici emblem) filled the air.On September 1st, 1512, after 18 years of exile, the Medici triumphantly returned.Key figures included:Cardinal Giovanni (future Pope Leo X)Giuliano de MediciGiulio de Medici (future Pope Clement VII)Lorenzo de Medici (grandson of Lorenzo the Magnificent)Pope Leo XIn 1513, Cardinal Giovanni became Pope Leo X at the age of 37:Florentines celebrated wildly, with fireworks, bonfires, and public feasting.Lorenzo was positioned to govern Florence under Medici influence, assisted by Cardinal Giulio.Giuliano de Medici...
188 - The Italian Wars 10: Medici at home, Milan back and forth and kings and emperors dying (1513 - 1516) (00:20:02)
In this episode, we pick up the story of the Medici family as they return to Florence, armed with the great news of Giovanni de' Medicibecoming Pope Leo X. We dive into:How the Medici family subtly regained power in Florencewithout taking formal positions, carefully balancing loyalty and governance.The undoing of Savonarola's reforms and the reinstatement of Machiavelli.Florence’s evolving political culture: from fierce Republican ideals to the tentative acceptance of centralized rule.The clumsy anti-Medici plot by two young Florentines, Bosconi and Caponi, and its swift failure.Pope Leo X’s (formerly Giovanni de' Medici) plunge into the complex international diplomacy of the early 1500s and the continuation of the Italian Wars.The battles of Novara (1513) and Marignano (1515), marking a significant shift in power as France reclaimed Milan under Francis I.Venice’s strategic gains and the Treaty of Noyon, closing one chapter of existential threat for the Republic.The papacy’s pragmatic maneuvering under Pope Leo X despite being on the losing side of the Milan conflict.Leo's "pet project": securing the Duchy of Urbino for his nephew Lorenzo de' Medici, amidst local resistance and messy warfare.The rise of Catherine de' Medici, a future powerhouse figure in European history, born from a strategic marriage alliance.Florence’s further ambitions in Tuscany, including their growing influence over Siena.The birth of young Charles V, and the looming prospect of imperial dominance over Italy once again.Closing reflections: was peace finally within reach for Italy? Or was a bigger storm, like the Protestant Reformation, quietly brewing?
God's banker - the Roberto Calvi affair - interview with Nicolò Majnoni (00:35:57)
After the release of the series "Secret Kingdom - God's banker" we talk with the podcast creator Nicolò Majnoni about the Roberto Calvi affair and talk about Italy in the early 80's, the Vatican, the Cold War, Freemasons and the Mafia
Regional Italy episode 06 - Sicily (00:28:20)
In this episode, we dive into a personal story that kicks off with a Christmas party invitation and an unexpected wardrobe choice — a kilt. From this quirky start, we delve into the historical significance of Sicily, a land that has shaped centuries of Mediterranean history.The episode takes us on a journey from the ancient Carthaginian and Greek settlements to the present day, with a special focus on Palermo, Catania, and Messina. We hear about the Normans, the Arabs, and the rise of the Roman Empire in Sicily. Along the way, we uncover the island's rich cultural layers, including its enduring connection to mafia resistance, the tragic story of Giuseppe Impastato, and heroes like Falcone and Borsellino who fought to bring justice to Sicily.In the second half of the episode, we explore the stunning beauty of Sicily's landscapes from Mount Etna, its picturesque coastline, and its ancient Greek ruins. Then of course there are the local wines, like this eof the Donna Fugata winery and the 100 passi, which embody Sicily's resilience and spirit.Finally, we hear about Explore Worldwide’s immersive tours of the island, including family-friendly adventures and activities like zip-lining, sea kayaking, and visiting archaeological gems like Giardini Naxos and Siracusa.Key highlights:Sicilian ancestry and the influence of Scottish heritage.The island's multicultural past: from Carthage to Greek colonization.Catania, Messina, and the legendary Mount Etna.Anti-mafia heroes, and community resilience.The importance of local wine and sustainable tourism with Explore Worldwide.If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Sicily, this episode will inspire you to explore its timeless beauty, history, and culture. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn about one of the world’s most fascinating regions — packed with legends, landscapes, and a true sense of adventure!Takeaway: Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a wine lover, Sicily offers something for everyone. Tune in for an unforgettable journey into one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating islands!Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
186 - Julius II changes his mind and some spanking (1509 - 1512) (00:14:55)
Venice is reeling from the defeat at Agnadello, but immediately starts the comeback egged on by doge Lorenzo Loredan. After some promising victories they suffer another defeat at the hands of the League of Cambrai at Polisella.When all seems once again lost, Pope Julius II changes sides, allying with Venice and seeking to expel the French from Italy, which he manages to do after forming the Holy League of 1512.
Regional Italy episode 05 - Campania (00:28:10)
From the Roman fast food joints in the marvel that is Pompei, to the buzzing historical streets of Naples and the witches of Benevento, we're going off, thanks to Explore Worldwide, to explore the southern Italian Region of Campania. What happened to the tree of the witches?What is the "Naples Splitter"?Where is the most iconic coast of Italy?Can you actually move without tripping over a UNESCO world heritage site?Which city had bad wind?How many people can you fit on a scooter?You'll find the answers to these questions and many more in this Episode.Thanks as always to our partner for this series:Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
185 - Clouds over Vernice - Julis II and Cambrai (1500 - 1509) (00:15:24)
After following the adventures of Julius II we go and visit with Venice, who is having ups and downs, losing influence as the attentipn of the world turns to the Atlantic, losing colonies to the Turks and starting to make enemies in Europe, powerful enemies that will come together in the league of Cambrai, leading to the dramatic battle of Agnedello in 1509.Oh and we also have the mysterious death of would-be doge Filippo Tron: was he murdered, or just seriously overweight?
Regional Italy 04 - Tuscany (00:27:51)
We start from Siena, with the story of how I almost got beaten up and why there is an extra bit of Siena cathedral added on and incomplete. The it's up to Florence to visit with the Medici, Da Vinci, Botticelli and Simonetta Vespucci, his Venus. From the capital of the Renaissance we head to their arch enemy Pisa and their wonky tower and then Lucca, with its Holy Face and medieval walls. After a bit of wine tasting in Val D'Orcia with some Brunello di Montalcino and Montepulciano we head to the seaside in Orbetello, province of Grosseto to visit the archeological site of Cosa and the unusual tarot garden park.
184 - Julius II: Warrior pope rising (1503 - 1508) (00:20:10)
Giuliano della Rovere, after trying for more than a decade, finally manages to become pope Julius II in 1503. He gets to work breaking the last resistance of Cesare Borgia, then has to sort out his Papal States, gobbled up by Venice in the north with a whole series of local lords taking back power.In all of this, the pope calls in a special decorator to do some touch up work in the Sistine chapel, a certain Michelangelo Buonarroti.In the sketch we imagine the conversation between the two.
Regional Italy episode 03 - Lombardy (00:26:55)
We take a little trip around the region of Lombardy, going beyond the financial and fashion capital Milan, to explore the beautiful nature of lake Como and hear all about the lake, monster that resides there. On the way, we will hear about a bridge, built by the devil in Pavia and the ghost that horns, the castle above the city of Como.We will also also make a stop off in the picturesque Bergamo and find out why there is a family emblem with three sets of testicles in front of the chapel in Piazza Duomo, before ending our tour in the unique peninsula, that is the city of Mantua created when the profit Manto cried the lakes into existence.As always, we are lucky to have as our guide, our good friends at Explore Worldwide.Click here for Adventure Travel inspiration from our friends at Explore Worldwide. Don’t Just Travel, Explore!
Recap 08 episodes 161 - 183 (00:31:22)
We stop and take a look back at the episodes that cover the late 1400's as Italy completed her transition from the middle ages to the Renaissance and the lead up to the Italian Wars after the death of Lorenzo the Magnificent.We retrace the campaign of king Charles VIII of France, the adventures of Ludovico Sforza, Il Moro, the end of the independence of the kingdom of Naples and, in the background the rise and fall of the Borgias, as well as the last stand of the Tigress of Forlì, Caterina Sforza.
