The timing was right for the Renaissance to start in Florence. Here many peasants and nobility had gathered into business ventures amassing a great amount of wealth. They also met many individuals from other cultures opening their minds to new ideas. These ideas were readily swapped and changed in the city due to the presence of so many people, and the increased use of universities and libraries. One family in particular, the Medici, used their wealth and influence to commission great works of art and culture based on the standards of Ancient Rome and Greece. Check out the links and videos below for more information on this exciting place!