It was difficult for Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519) to assert himself in Italy: although he assumed that "Italy belonged to him", de facto only Imperial Italy with the Duchy of Milan and several smaller principalities was subject to him; however, he was also the patron of the Pope, who in turn ruled over large parts of Central and Southern Italy. Only the noble republic of Venice was independent of both.
Maximilian, even without sufficient financial means, had to enter into constantly changing alliances, including with or against France, and waged numerous wars in Upper Italy with different partners. Italy, however, was also of interest to the emperor in cultural terms - he employed Italian artists, was inspired by Italian art and set great store by Italian books and manuscripts.
Group
Books (first-hand)
Author
Butcher, John/Debertol, Markus/Koller, Alexander u.a.
Title
Maximilian I. und Italien
Details
Numerous, mainly coloured illustrations, large format. 197 pp.
