Construction begins in 1458 on the Pitti …

Years: 1458 - 1458

Construction begins in 1458 on the Pitti Palace, the residence of the Florentine magnate Luca Pitti, designed by an unknown architect, possibly from designs by the late Filippo Brunelleschi.

Pitti, a banker, is a loyal friend and servant to the Medici and the republic.

As the head magistrate of Florence, known as "The Gonfalonier of Justice," he wields great power and influence.

In August, 1458, he stages a coup to seize control of Florentine government in the name of its existing ruler, the elderly and now frail Cosimo de' Medici.

In effect, he wishes to strengthen the existing government.

As a result many leading citizens are banished, and many other citizens were driven from power.

The newly formed government is to last eight years with Cosimo as its figurehead, the reality being that he is too frail to maintain power alone.

Awarded a knighthood, Pitti receives lavish presents from both the Signory of Firenze and the Medici family as a reward.

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