How a Valencian family weaponized the papacy to dominate Renaissance Italy
In short: This documentary traces the meteoric rise of the Borgia dynasty, exploring how they transformed religious authority into secular power through strategic marriages, calculated murders, and political ruthlessness.
The family originated as the Borja of Xàtiva near Valencia. Their ascent began in 1455 when Alfons de Borja became Pope Callixtus III. His nephew, Rodrigo Borgia, was elected Pope Alexander VI in 1492, using his position to elevate his children's status.
The documentary examines the careers of Cesare and Lucrezia Borgia. While Cesare abandoned his cardinalate to build a state in the Romagna—a move studied by Machiavelli—Lucrezia was married three times for political gain. The family's dominance collapsed following Alexander's death in 1503.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Borgia Family - The Complete History of the Renaissance’s Most Notorious Dynasty Documentary
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