223.
The reign of the archbishop Giovanni marks a new epoch in the despotism of the Visconti.

They are now no longer the successful rivals of the Della Torre family or dependents on imperial caprice, but self-made sovereigns, with a well-established power in Milan and a wide extent of subject territory.

Their dynasty, though based on force and maintained by violence, has come to be acknowledged; and we shall soon see them allying themselves with the royal houses of Europe.

After the death of Giovanni, Matteo's sons were extinct.

But Stefano, the last of his family, had left three children, who now succeeded to the lands and cities of the house.