The Renaissance is one of the most important cultural movements in human history. Its effects and influence were far reaching, spreading throughout all of Europe and later influencing many areas of culture and society that led to the modern era we know today.
However, there are a few interesting, fun and weird facts we bet you didn’t know about the Renaissance.
The birthplace of the Renaissance was Italy. The period began in the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century. It began as a cultural movement that spawned the beginning of a philosophy called humanism and quickly spread throughout the rest of Europe, influencing art, literature, architecture and politics throughout the continent.
Some of the greatest artists in history like Leonardo da Vinci were inspired by the Renaissance. Da Vinci produced his first portrait, called da Vinci’s Tiger, during this period.
Italy was considered to be the center of world culture during that time with many cities like Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan and Verona being powerhouses in areas of trade, commerce and finance.
The Renaissance directly contributed to new ways of thinking about religion and the role it played in society. This was also the beginning of the Protestant Reformation led by Martin Luther that broke away from the Catholic Church.
Men were not considered to be mature enough for marriage until they were at least 30. However, women were expected to be married by 16-17 years old.
There were around 60 churches just within the city walls of Florence.
Women were discouraged from playing wind instruments because they were told it made their faces look unattractive. Instead, they were encouraged to play string instruments.
Music began to flourish in popularity, especially during the 15th century. The 15th century Burgundian School played a major role in the spread of music and used it as a tool of expression. This also led to the development of Italy being a European center for musical innovation and experimentation in later centuries.
Many important historians and literary experts at the time believed that the Renaissance was the re-birth of Roman and Greek Latin heritage, which directly influenced the advancements in arts, architecture, science and literature.
Michelangelo created artwork and sculptures with his fresco designs in the Sistine Chapel that challenged many people’s preconceived conceptions about art and expression. This came to influence many other artists of the time.
Artists gained a particular sense of notoriety and prestige especially those like glassmakers found in Murano.
Despite the Renaissance originating in Italy, the word renaissance is actually French and means ‘rebirth’, which is what this period was with many people trying to recreate the idea of Ancient Greece and Rome.
What is now known as the beginning of the Scientific Revolution occurred during the period of the Renaissance. The new ideas and freedom in thinking allowed for innovation and advances in many scientific disciplines.
Hunting became a popular activity especially for the elite and upper class.
Remnants of Renaissance-inspired architecture can still be seen everywhere today in churches and many other important buildings in Italy especially cities like Florence that were central to the entire period.