The dynasties of Visconti and Sforza from 1300 to 1500 bridged over the years that intervened between the Middle Age and the Renaissance, between the period of the free burghs and the period during which Italy was destined to become the theater of the action of more powerful nations.

Their alliances and diplomatic relations prepared the way for the interference of foreigners in Italian affairs.

Their pedigree illustrates the power acquired by military adventurers in the peninsula.

The magnitude of their political schemes displays the most soaring ambition which it was ever granted to Italian princes to indulge.

The splendor of their court and the intelligence of their culture bear witness to the high state of civilization which the Italians had reached.
The power of the Visconti in Milan was founded upon that of the Della Torre family, who preceded them as Captains General of the people at the end of the thirteenth century.