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The Italian realms in 1444
Europe in 1444 is on the verge of the Age of Discovery, yet it is reeling from the shock of the failed Crusade of Varna, as well as the threat of the Ottoman Empire in the east.

As the High Renaissance approaches, Italy and Germany remain fraught by the constant friction between the Emperor and the many autonomous Princes.

In the wealthy Northern Italy, several small Duchies, Republics, Marquisates and Lordships compete for dominance. The Merchant Republics of Venice, and Genoa, have sought to expand its influence outside of the Italian peninsula, to Dalmatia and the Greek Isles, to secure their economic interests. The Duchy of Milan's days of glory is over. Their ruler is old and has no children to inherit his position. Leaving it vulnerable to pretenders and radical republicans alike.

In Tuscany, the Medici family of Florence have long patronized and encouraged the arts and innovation leading to it becoming the heartland of the Renaissance. While in central Italy the Pope wrestles against local Dictators and Princes over the power of the Papal States.

The Kingdom of Naples has long been a subject of infighting among the Angevin Princes and Lords, leaving it open to an invasion from the Iberian Kingdom of Aragon. With Sicily and most of Sardinia in their grip, they now reign as the most powerful actor in southern Italy.

Description

The Italian realms in 1444
Europe in 1444 is on the verge of the Age of Discovery, yet it is reeling from the shock of the failed Crusade of Varna, as well as the threat of the Ottoman Empire in the east.

As the High Renaissance approaches, Italy and Germany remain fraught by the constant friction between the Emperor and the many autonomous Princes.

In the wealthy Northern Italy, several small Duchies, Republics, Marquisates and Lordships compete for dominance. The Merchant Republics of Venice, and Genoa, have sought to expand its influence outside of the Italian peninsula, to Dalmatia and the Greek Isles, to secure their economic interests. The Duchy of Milan's days of glory is over. Their ruler is old and has no children to inherit his position. Leaving it vulnerable to pretenders and radical republicans alike.

In Tuscany, the Medici family of Florence have long patronized and encouraged the arts and innovation leading to it becoming the heartland of the Renaissance. While in central Italy the Pope wrestles against local Dictators and Princes over the power of the Papal States.

The Kingdom of Naples has long been a subject of infighting among the Angevin Princes and Lords, leaving it open to an invasion from the Iberian Kingdom of Aragon. With Sicily and most of Sardinia in their grip, they now reign as the most powerful actor in southern Italy.