The cradle of the Renaissance?

The myth of Florence as the 'cradle of the Renaissance' emerged during the late Enlightenment and early Romantic era, significantly shaping its global perception. This narrative was largely constructed following the transfer of Italy's capital from Turin, when much of the historic center underwent demolition and reconstruction to align with Risorgimento-era ideals. The study analyzes traveler testimonies and cultural practices to trace the origins of this historiographic myth, revealing how it was influenced by romanticized notions of Renaissance creativity and national identity. By examining this process, the research sheds light on how historical narratives are shaped by political and intellectual movements.

Melani, I. (2022). The cradle of the Renaissance? Cosmopolitan Italy in the Age of Nations, 229–248. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003098195-18