![]() ![]() The Medici banking empire would rapidly expand to become the largest financial institution in Europe, with branches as far away as Naples, Geneva, and London. However, a more cynical view suggests the design represents coins as the leading money-changers of the day. The ubiquitous emblem features a series of red balls on a gold shield, symbolizing the dents Averendo incurred during his heroic feat. Today, the Medici coat of arms can still grace many buildings in Tuscany. In 1537, Holy Roman Emperor Charles V officially awarded the family the nobility they craved by establishing the Grand Dukes of Tuscany. Seizing the moment, Averado slew his foe (or had the guy whacked - accounts vary), thus earning cult status for future generations to immortalize. ![]() One day the warrior was riding his horse when he encountered a fearsome giant who had been terrorizing the local townspeople. According to the tale, a distant relative named Averardo fought as a valiant armored knight to Charlemagne the Great. To complement the family’s newly elevated standing, they manufactured an equally impressive ancestry, proving deep pockets can buy almost anything - even a legend. By the late 13th century, Giovanni di Bicci de’ Medici had reversed the clan’s humble origins with the founding of a successful bank. Before launching their empire, the Medicis started out as poor farmers from Cafaggiolo in northern Tuscany. ![]()
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