The Renaissance: Filippo Brunelleschi

The Renaissance The word ‘Renaissance’ means the re-birth or the revival of something. In History, the word Renaissance refers to the revival of art, literature and architecture. It is known as the bridge between medieval times and modern times. The Renaissance began in the 14th century and lasted for three centuries until the 17th century. Its birthplace was Italy. The Renaissance began in Florence in 1341. At this time in Florence, there was a lot of wealth. The people of Florence were heavily involved in trading and agriculture. Many of these owned both houses and housing estates outside of Florence, in the Tuscany region. Even after the Black Death (a plague which affected almost 50% of Italy’s population) in 1348, these wealthy
He played a major part in the rise of architecture during the Renaissance. The Cathedral in Florence was finished by 1426, however it was at a stage where it needed a dome for the top of the building. Along with several other architects, he built designed a dome for the cathedral. Along with that, he designed special pieces that helped hoist the dome into place. The dome became part of the landscape, and the people of Florence, and visitors from all parts of Europe also couldn’t help but notice the dome on the cathedral. Brunelleschi had a great influence in Renaissance architecture when he designed the Ospedale degli Innocenti, which was a hospital for orphans. It’s rounded columns along with its Corinthian style foliage, was the beginning of the new antique style which was seen during the Renaissance. Another great architect who rose to prominence during the Renaissance was Leon Battista Alberti. He was a painter, sculpture and also an architect. His works were inspired by the ancient times. His works, Tempio Malastestiano located in Rimini in Italy, and also the Church of Santa Maria Novella located in Florence are based on ancient Roman temple forts. Alberti also helped in designing the Church of Sant’ Andrea. He, along with Lodovico Gonzaga designed the church in 1470 and it is thought to be one of Alberti’s most complete
It wasn’t until the 16th century that it really started to change. In 1501, a printer in Venice called Ottaviano Petrucci, published the first significant collection of polyphonic music. This was very significant the printing of music spread rapidly to France, Germany and England. Before this, there was no printing and in order to get music, it had to be copied by hand or learned by ear. All music was held by religious groups or very wealthy families. Now, these books could be accessed by far greater numbers and it became possible to learn