Filippo Brunelleschi

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When thinking of the Renaissance, a quote from Niccolo Machiavelli comes to mind. “I'm not interested in preserving the status quo; I want to overthrow it.” This quotation is indicative of the tone set by this era, as well as what this age culminated in. The people of Europe were not satisfied with their lives, and an immense gradual change came to culture, religion, and political leadership. This change resulted in greater foreign trade and ties between empires, as well as Europe regaining its wealth and power that was lost within the Dark Ages. This period is between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries is more commonly referred to as the Renaissance, and is the transition between the Middle Ages and the modern era. Although defining a …show more content…

Filippo Brunelleschi´s dome of San Lorenzo was the first dome ever built in Europe since before the Dark Ages of Western Rome. This marvel of engineering and architecture established the power and wealth of Florence and the Medicis in the late thirteenth century (Larkin Brunelleschi). The revival of the dome allowed for new styles and creations, and the knowledge of the dome being reinstated inspired and motivated other architects to pursue their passion of reviving Classical architecture. Such architects include Andrea Palladio with his construction of the Church of Sant’Andrea in 1470 (European Paintings). Although a building and a sculpture by themselves may not seem very important, it is the innovations and contributions of those who are inspired by these pieces that dictate an era of cultural progress. These creations are also important because they established the wealth and power within Florence and attracted more people to the city-state, therefore increasing the population as well as the economy. With people from all over Italy and Europe coming to see these immense achievements of art and architecture, foreign trade increases which raises the exchange of goods and currency. Brunelleschi, Michelangelo, and Palladio are not directly connected, but these figures of the artistic and architectural revolutions of the European Renaissance are linked to Medici influence. The fact that cultural revolutions took place in Europe inspired by the Medici bankers is critical evidence that the Renaissance did

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