VINCI
Leonardo's Home Town

History

In former times, Vinci was inhabited by the Etruscans, and later became a Roman "castrum".

The primitive castle building dates back to the height of the Middle Ages and, around the year 1000, was dominated by the Conti Guidi, whose possession was confirmed in 1164 by Frederick Barbarossa and in 1220 by Frederick Il of Sweden. On August 12, 1254, Vinci succumbed to Florentine dominion and was transformed into a borough.

As it was situated on the western borders of the state, Vinci was contended by Florence's enemies; it was also directly involved in the events caused by those factions which tormented life in the capital. In 1315, Uguccione della Faggiuola's troops fought under Vinci's walls; in 1320-26, John Hawkwood, dubbed "The Acute", was at the head of the English mercenaries hired by Pisa.