Mantova : Italy
Mantua was invaded (after the decay of the Roman Empire) by Goths, Byzantines, Longobards and Franks, and then it became a possession of Canossa, whose last ruler was the famous countess Matilde of Canossa (d. 1115). According to the legend, she ordered the construction of the precious “Rotonda di San Lorenzo” (1082).
In 1198 Alberto Pitentino optimised the course of the Mincio, creating what Mantuans call “the four lakes”, enforcing the natural protection.
In the Middle Ages, Mantua was ruled by several families which became extremely important in the history and culture of Italy, among which the Bonacolsi and the Corradi di Gonzaga (or, briefly, Gonzaga; 1328-1708). See Duchy of Mantua.
The Gonzaga protected art and culture, and hosted several important artists like Leone Battista Alberti, Andrea Mantegna, Donatello, Luca Fancelli, and Nicol Sebregondi.
