- ARCHIVE - Ducal Court of Milan

Jagiellonian · 03-01-2003, 20:27

The Ducal Court of Milan

Familia

Duke Filippo Maria Visconti: Descendent of the great Matteo, who had become Lord of Milan in 1312, Filippo was born in the year of our lord 1392. He became Duke of Milan in 1412 when the former Duke, his older brother Giovanni, was murdered by Ghibelline partisans. His coronation marked the centenial of Visconti rule in Milan. He married Beatrice, the widow of the great Condottieri Facino Cane, that same year. Their marriage was childless and Beatrice was executed in the year 1418 on the charge of adultery. Seven years later, in 1425, his daughter Bianca was born of an unknown mother. He once told his daughter, who was always mightly concerned with the faltering state of his health, "I care less for my body than my soul, but I put my government before body or soul."

Bianca Maria Visconti: The illegitimate daughter of Filippo Visconti, born in the year of our lord 1425.

Condottieri Francesco Sforza, High Commander of Lombardi: Born in the year of our lord 1401, the illegitimate son of Muzio Attendolo Sforza. He succeeded his father as leader of his band of mercenaries, and became one of the most powerful Condottieri of his time. He is the Duke's right hand man, as well as commander of his armed forces.

Enrico Rampini de' Sant'Allosio, Archbishop of Milan: Born in the year of our lord 1390. Appointed representative of the Pope's authority in Milan in the year 1429. The Archbishop is a close friend of the Duke. Some say that he is even more loyal to the Duke than to the Pope himself. Of course it is said in whispers, for saying such things is heresy.

Baron Niccolo Della Milano: Born in the year of our lord 1405. His family have been long time supporters of the Visconti family. Currently the representative of Milan in the Imperial Diet at Nuremberg.

Chronicals of the Visconti Familia

The Viscontis are descendents of King Desiderius, and in the 9th century possessed estates on Lakes Commo and Maggiore. A certain Ottone, who distinguished himself in the First Crusade, was Viscount of Milan in 1078.
The true basis for the families dominion was however laid by another Ottone, a canon of Desio, appointed Archbishop of Milan by Pope Urban IV in 1262 through the influence of Cardinal Ubaldini. The Delia Torre family, who then controled Milan, opposed the appointment, and not until his victory at Desic in 1277 was Ottone able to take possession of the city. He imprisoned Napoleone Delia Torre and five of his relatives in iron cages, and directed his later efforts toward the advancement of his nephew Matteo. He died on the 18th of August 1295, at the age of 80.
Matteo, born at Invorio on the 15th of August 1255, succeeded his uncle as political leader of Milan, and although a Delia Torre uprising in 1302 compelled him to take refuge in Verona, his steadfast loyalty to the Imperial cause in Italy earned him the gratitude of Henry VII, who restored him to Milan in 1310 and made him Imperial Vicar of Lombardy. He brought under his rule Piacenza, Tortona, Pavia, Bergamo, Vercelli, Cremona, and Alessandro. Matteo was an able general and was esteemed as the model prudent Italian despot. A quarl with Pope John XXII over an appointment to the Archbishopric of Milan brought him to excommunication in 1322. He at once abdicated in favor of his son Galeazzo, and died at Crescenzago on the 24th of June, 1322. He had four other sons besides Galeazzo: Marco, Lucchino, Giovanni, and Stefano.
Galeazzo I (1277-1328), who ruled Milan from 1322-1328, met the Holy Army which the Pope had sent against the Visconti at Vaprio on the Adda in 1324, and defeated it with the aid of the Emperor Louis the Bavarian. In 1327 he was imprisoned by the Emperor at Monza because he was thought guilty of making peace with the church and was released only on the intercession of his friend Castruccio Castracane. By his wife Beatrice d'Este he had the son Azzo who succeeded him.
His brother Marco commanded a band of Germans, conquered Pisa and Lucca and died in 1329.
Azzo (1302-1339) bought the title of the Imperial Vicar for 25,000 Florins from Emperor Louis. He conquered ten towns, murdered his uncle Marco in 1329, suppressed a revolt lead by his cousin Lodrisio, reorganized the administration of his estates, and was succeeded in turn by his uncles Lucchino and Giovanni. Lucchino made peace with the church in 1341, bought Parma from Obizzo d'Este, and made Pisa dependant on Milan. Although he showed ability as general and governor, he was jealous and cruel, and was poisoned in 1349 by his wife Isabella Fieschi. Giovanni, Archbishop of Milan and lord of the city from 1349 to 1354, was one of the most notable characters of his time. He befriended Petrarch, extended the Visconti sway over Bologna (1350), defied Pope Clement VI, annexed Genoa (1353), and died on the 5th of October 1354 after having established the rule of his family over a large part of northern Italy.
The state was partitioned after the death of Giovanni among his brother Stefano's three sons, Matteo II, Galeazzo II, and Bernabo.
Matteo II, who succeeded to Bologna, Lodi, Piacenza and Parma, abandoned himself to the most revolting immorality, and was assassinated in 1355 by direction of his brothers, who thenceforth governed the state jointly and with considerable ability.
Galeazzo II, who held his court at Pavia, was handsome and distinguished, the patron of Petrarch, the founder of the University of Pavia and a gifted diplomat. He married his daughter Violante to the Duke of Clarence, son of Edward III of England, giving a dowry of 200,000 Florins; and his son Gian Galeazzo to Isabella, daughter of King John of France. He died in 1378. Bernabo, who held court at Milan, was involved in constant warfare. He fought Popes Innocent VI and Urban V, who proclaimed a crusade against him. He fought the Emperor Charles IV. He endeavoured to exercise sole power in the state after the death of his brother, but his young nephew Gian Galeazzo plotted against him and put him to death in 1385.
Gian Galeazzo became joint ruler of the Milanese territories on the death of his father in 1378, and sole ruler on the death of his uncle seven years later. He founded the cathedral of Milan, improved the University of Pavia and restored the University of Piacenza. His government was excellent, he was an able economical administrator, and was reputed to be one of the wealthiest princes of his time. His grand ambition was to unite Italy under the rule of the Visconti. He conquered Verona in 1387, and in the following year, with the aid of the Venetians, took Padua. He plotted successfully against the rulers of Mantua and Ferrara, and having seized control of all of Lombardy he turned his attention to Tuscany. In 1399 he bought Pisa and seized Siena. The Emperor Wenceslaus had already conferred on him the title Duke of Milan for 100,000 Florins, reserving only Pisa, and refused to take arms against him. Gian Galeazzo took Perugia, Lucca, and Bologna (1400-1401) and was besieging Florence when he died of the plague in September of 1402. His sons, Giovanni Maria and Filippo Maria, were mere boys at the time of his death, and were taken under the protection of the celebrated Condottieri Facino Cane de Cesale, but most of Gian Galeazzo's conquests were lost to his self seeking generals. Giovanni Maria was proclaimed Duke of Milan in 1402, displayed an insane cruelty, and was killed in 1412. Filippo Maria succeeded his brother as Duke of Milan.

State Affairs

The Duchy of Milan is a loyal member of the Holy Roman Empire

Ambassadors Residing at the Milanese Court

Nikolai Ketrana of Cyprus
Longinus of the Greif, representative of Pomerania
Manfred Eisenhauer, representative of Wuerttemberg

Milanese Ambassadors

Baron Niccolo Della Milano, Representative of Milan at the Imperial Diet in Nuremberg
Francesco Sforza, currently residing at the Pomeranian court in Stettin
Pascal Rozarrio, residing in Wuerttemberg

J. Passepartout · 04-01-2003, 00:29

Two men walked into court.

"Hello. I am Prince Koukolos, of Cyprus. I have been traveling through Europe and have thought I would pay you a visit and drop off an ambassador at the same time. This is Nikolai Ketrana." The prince stopped as a lady entered the room, who looked as though she might be related to Fillipo. "Um, is that beautiful lady of rank?" Koukolos had fallen in love with her, and was determined to stay in Milan until he had permission from her father to marry her. He just hoped she was nobility or even a relation of the duke, for it would be easier that way...

Jagiellonian · 04-01-2003, 01:12

I welcome you to Milan, Prince Koukolos. I extend the friendship of my people and my court to you and yours. I also happily welcome your ambassador as a resident of Milan and worthy representative of your Kingdom. The lady you see is none other than my dearest child Bianca, her mother died many years ago and she is the only thing in the world I cherish. Of course I will eventually consider a suitable groom for her, but only when she is of age. As you see yourself, she is now only 5 years old, much too young to fullfill the roles of wife and mother. However, I take it as a fine sign that despite her young age you already so openly express your affection for her. Perhaps it is heavenly ordained that our two houses will one day be joined in holy matrimony. Prince, if your intentions are pure, wait for her hand but 8 years. Come to me in the first quarter of the year of our lord 1438, and then I shall give your intentions serious consideration. Are there any other matters which you wish to take up with Milan?

J. Passepartout · 04-01-2003, 01:17

"Yes, she is pretty, and looks older than you say. I thought there would be far less than 12 years between us."

Nikolai looked at the prince. There was an old hereditary madness in the family of the king, which had avoided the living members. Perhaps it was manifesting itself now.

Bagricula · 04-01-2003, 22:50

A benedictine monk, wearing the black robes of the order and carrying a wooden rosary, approaches the dais murmuring Ave Marias. Father Benedict Magini speaks slowly and effectively,

"Your Excellency, Filippo Maria Visconti, Principe di Milano, I come humbly bearing the mandates of His Most Serene and Pacific Majesty, your liege, the Emperor of Humanity, Erich I. He has sent me to request from you a delegate in his parliament in Nuremburg so that the interests and wisdom of Milano may be presented before His Most August Imperial Majesty."

Jagiellonian · 04-01-2003, 23:53

"My good Friar, your visit in our city fills me with joy. Please inform his most August Majesty that I beg His forgiveness for not contacting Him earlier. Indeed I did intend to make the trip to Nuremberg personaly, hoping for a personal interview with our Holy Emperor. As you see, my court is a mess, and we have been quite busy these past few weeks organizing the court and bringing matters into general order. Please, allow me to introduce Baron Niccolo Della Milano."

A young handsome man, no older than 25, enters the room. He is dressed all in black, a long red feather in his cap, a small silver crusifix on a slender silver chain resting on his breast. It is the unmistakable uniform of the Visconti clan.

"The Baron will act as my delegate in the Imperial Diet at Nuremberg. If, Friar, you are returning straight to that city, perhaps you shall travel together? Please send his most August Majesty my warmest regards, and also tell Him that as soon as I organize my matters in Milan I will personally visit Him, for I feel we have much to discuss. What say you Friar?"

Longinus · 08-01-2003, 20:06

Few young knights enters the ducal court, they all bow before the duke and one of the steps forward. Their clothes are definitely from the North Germany as well as firm faces. He starts to speak in German and his translatol repeats his words in italian.

"Noble Duke,

I bring greetings and salutations from the far lands of Pommerania. I come before you to say that although so distant we are brother in faith and in the Empire. I am Longinus of the Greif, youngest brother of Joachim of the Greif, Regent-Protector of Pommerania.

Know that Francesco Sforza have been well recieved in Stettin and this very visit evoked the idea of the jouney in my brother's head. He suggested me that a journey to Italy might be a good idea for my education and future life. I decided to hear his suggestion and travel to sunny lands of Italian pennisula in order to visit them, learn new cultures and perhaps study in famous italian universities. A rumor says that new, bright light is comming from here, light of renaissance.

Should you accept me and my friends in your court I will stay in Milan and learn your kin."

After saying that Longinus bows slightly and awaits dukes anwser.

Jagiellonian · 09-01-2003, 05:25

The Duke speaks:

"I greet you in Milan, young Longinus. I feel true kin to you and your brother, and do not deny that your family are considered the closest friends of the Visconti clan. I have had in the past many prophetic dreams, and this our meeting was amongst them. I dare say our two houses will enjoy a long and fruitful friendship, and indeed will one day become one great house, whose glory will be unbound. I greet you in Milan, young Longinus, not only as a friend, but as a brother. Stay in Milan as long as you wish, and visit me often, for I would like to better know you. My servant will show you to your rooms. Tommorow we will feast, to celebrate your safe arrival. And now I bid you good night, go with God.

Auspend · 12-01-2003, 04:31

A German ambassador is escorted into the court of Milan.

"My lord, I have come from your cousin, Heinrich of Wuerttemberg, to be his ambassador in your court. My name is Manfred Eisenhauer. He is pleased that the land of Milan seems to have become active again in international politics."

Jagiellonian · 12-01-2003, 04:39

The Duke speaks:

"My dear Manfred, it fills me with joy that your Lord has chosen to send you to Milan. Know that you are welcome to stay as long as you wish. If you have any needs, please, do not hesitate to speak with me."

Wulfram · 12-01-2003, 12:08

A letter arrives from Venice

"Filippo Maria Visconti, Duke of Milan,

The Republic of Venice welcomes any treaty that will expand and secure our trade. We await your proposals eagerly

Signed,

Antonio Mocenigo, Duke of Venice and Dalmatia"

Jarlen av Juks · 12-01-2003, 18:32

A messenger from Naples enters the Ducal Court. With a bow he presents the Duke with a letter bearing the seal of the House of Durazzo.

Esteemed Duke,

It was with great pleasure and joy we read your recent letter. I salute your good intentions and wish to extend the good will of Naples to your Duchy as well. Your keen observations of the political state of the peninsula fills me with hope that we shall enjoy a period of friendly bonds between our nations and greater prosperity for all.

I will endeavour to send a represenative to your court soon and hope you will reciprocate by sending an envoy to Naples.

Signed in friendship,

Conte Ardo de Fierto, for His Majesty Principe Sergio I

Longinus · 12-01-2003, 23:19

Not even a week passed when Joachim of the Greif returned to Stettin when a guest, expected but also quite surprising, arrived in Pommern.

Joachim greeted Duke of Milan with barely hidden intrest in his eyes. His posture impressed him very much as he was facing man of expierience and a man of vision at the same time. *"I would say he is most courious person I have met during the last years."* Joachim felt somehow uneasy looking into deep, brown eyes of Filippo Maria Visconti, Duke of Milan. His words surprised Joachim even more, he cough slightly in order to cover his confusion and moment later he replied bowing before Visconti.

"Noble Duke,

Your presence here is a honour to the House of the Greif. You call me a friend and friendship is the greatest treasure of two people and I dare to reply... My friend welcome in Stettin."

He pauses for a moment and then continiue.

"Your ambassador, noble Francesco Sforza, has informed me about your journey here and about your wish. Know that I will be most happy to grant you a blessing and hand of my sister.

I have heard much about you and now when I see you and hear you, your presence tells everthing. I can see great passion in your eyes.

This passion...

I have heard of prophetic dreams you have, rumors says that you were blessed by God Almighty just as my beloved brother, Albert-Boguslav, hero and leader of the last crusade. Perjhaps you could share with me this passion during one of our future conversations?"

With this words he approaches Visconti and smiles.

"I hope that you will enjoy your presence in Stettin during these winter months. Our fireplaces are warm but strong wind from Baltic may sometimes overcome them."

Wulfram · 13-01-2003, 13:11

A letter arrives from Venice

"Duke Filippo Maria Visconti of Milan,

The Senate feels that the treaty you have proposed would place unacceptable restrictions on our independence and freedom of action, as well as our freedom to trade.

Also, it is felt that given our extensive interests in the east it would be unwise to tie ourselves too strongly to mainland Italy.

We wish you luck in your endeavour however, and would be interested in friendly relations with your alliance should it form.

Signed,

Antonio Mocenigo, Doge of Venice and Dalmatia"

Jarlen av Juks · 13-01-2003, 15:36

A young man clad in fanciful clothes approaches and addresses the Duke.

-" Greetings Lord of Milan,

I, Cavaliere Pierro de Reggio, am here on the behest of his most Christian Majesty Principe Sergio I of Naples. He regrets he has been unable to send an envoy earlier and hopes my presence here will remedy the situation.

We have heard words of a discussion regarding a proposed treaty between your Dukedom and the Republic of Venice, allegedly also involving the Kingdom of Naples... Although official word of such a treaty has not reached Naples we are less than enthusiastic with regards to such a binding agreement with the Republic of Venice.

In addendum, the balance of goods between the signing members does not seem favour Naples at this moment.

Nevertheless, we hope to remain on good terms in the future and I will, with your permission, remain here to facilitate dialogue between glorious Milan and Naples."

de Reggio bows and retreats from view.

Jagiellonian · 13-01-2003, 18:28

A steward enters the room, and speaks to the guest:

"My Lord de Reggio, my Lord Duke has been expecting an ambassador from Naples, and welcomes You to Milan. Unfortunatly the Duke is away and is unable to greet You. I shall escort You to Your quarters. Feel free to call for me if ever need be. The Duke should return to Milan in the coming weeks."

Jarlen av Juks · 14-01-2003, 16:56

Cavaliere de Reggio returns to court to bring news to Milanese Steward.

Good Sir,

I am instructed on behalf of my master, Principe Sergio of Naples, to let you know that he is honoured by the invitation to your Lord's wedding. He and Principessa Angelena will both be attending.

de Reggio makes a small bow and leaves the hall.

Jarlen av Juks · 14-01-2003, 17:50

A herold bearing a red tunic decorated with the coat of Arms of the House of Durazzo enters the court and unfurls a long parchment from which he declares the following:

“He-eeee-aa-r Yee! He-eeee-aa-r Yee!!

I bring news from the Court of Naples! The House of Durazzo is pleased to announce that one of its most senior members, Duca Ferrante d’Apulia, is to wed the Infanta de Castilla, Duquesa Eleonore de Arión.

This momentous occasion will take place in Naples on June 3rd, year of Our Lord 1430 (ooc: Monday) and we hereby have the pleasure of inviting the Duke Visconti to Naples to join us in the celebration. We would be truly honoured to see you in our fair city on this grand day!

In Friendship,

Principe Sergio I, King of Naples

The Herold bows deeply and exits.

dantheman12345 · 15-01-2003, 15:22

'I wonder if you recognise me my Lord I am Louis Sforza. I see you have done well for yourself as have I. I hope now to irradicate all confusion by stating I am no relation to the Milanese Sforzas it is just a coincidance we share the same name.

My lady who is currently in Mourning over the death of her late husband. Wishes to invite you and your daughter to his funeral and the Coronation of her son. The designated heir of Piemonte King Charles-Phillippe Sforza. Who I beleive is the exact same age as your daughter. My Queen wishes me to ask the bretrothal of your daughter to my lord sovereign.

She asks I give you this.

Louis Hand the Duke a letter and an official parchment.

Dearest Filippo

I feel that the time has come for me to leave my state of mourning. My late husband had certain documants he wished me show you.

Treaty of Marrage.

My friend as you know my new wife has a son from her first marrage to Daniel Sforza. As I have no children of mine own I shall leave him my state if I die. But I heard knews of your daughter and began to think. My grandfather lost the provence of Savoy so I ask that you consider my step-sons hand for your daughter. I have prepared a contract for you eyes.

1.The daughter of the Duke shall reside at estates in both Piemonte and Milan untill her sixteenth birthday.

2. Upon this day Chales-Phillippe who shall already be 16 shall be conducted to Milan to begin a 4-month courtship of your daughter.

3. The Children of this marrage shall bear the Crown of Piemonte and a Milanese title.

4. The title of 'Queen of Piemonte' shall be confirmed upon your daughter at her coronation as well as the Title 'Countess Glamour' which is the title bourn by all wives of the Head Sforza in the Piemontian Branch of the Family.

5. A series of estates shall be made availiable to the couple in both states.

6. The children of Charles and Maria shall be heirs to both Milan and Piemonte untill yourself Filippo has a son.

7. The Children of this union shall always have a claim to the Ducal title of Milan and cannot act upon this unless all male heirs from the Duke of Milan are exhausted.

The Letter continues.

I hope to see you in Piemonte for my Husbands funeral (Saturday).

Yours under Christ

Maria Sforza-Savoy

Jarlen av Juks · 15-01-2003, 15:26

The Ducal court of Milan is entered by a large congregation of people. Standards and banners flying the colours of Naples and those of the House of Durazzo are carried by servants in front of the group as they make their way to the throne. Once there, a Herold speaks:

Esteemed Duke,

May I introduce to you His most Christian Majesty Principe Sergio I, King of Naples and at his side the Principessa Angelena. My Lord is pleased to be in Milan and looks forward to the coming wedding. However, he regrets that he will have to leave your fair Dukedom shortly after the official ceremony as much is in work in Naples and his presence is needed before long.

03-01-2003, 20:27	#1
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	Ducal Court of Milan The Ducal Court of Milan Familia Duke Filippo Maria Visconti: Descendent of the great Matteo, who had become Lord of Milan in 1312, Filippo was born in the year of our lord 1392. He became Duke of Milan in 1412 when the former Duke, his older brother Giovanni, was murdered by Ghibelline partisans. His coronation marked the centenial of Visconti rule in Milan. He married Beatrice, the widow of the great Condottieri Facino Cane, that same year. Their marriage was childless and Beatrice was executed in the year 1418 on the charge of adultery. Seven years later, in 1425, his daughter Bianca was born of an unknown mother. He once told his daughter, who was always mightly concerned with the faltering state of his health, "I care less for my body than my soul, but I put my government before body or soul." Bianca Maria Visconti: The illegitimate daughter of Filippo Visconti, born in the year of our lord 1425. Condottieri Francesco Sforza, High Commander of Lombardi: Born in the year of our lord 1401, the illegitimate son of Muzio Attendolo Sforza. He succeeded his father as leader of his band of mercenaries, and became one of the most powerful Condottieri of his time. He is the Duke's right hand man, as well as commander of his armed forces. Enrico Rampini de' Sant'Allosio, Archbishop of Milan: Born in the year of our lord 1390. Appointed representative of the Pope's authority in Milan in the year 1429. The Archbishop is a close friend of the Duke. Some say that he is even more loyal to the Duke than to the Pope himself. Of course it is said in whispers, for saying such things is heresy. Baron Niccolo Della Milano: Born in the year of our lord 1405. His family have been long time supporters of the Visconti family. Currently the representative of Milan in the Imperial Diet at Nuremberg. Chronicals of the Visconti Familia The Viscontis are descendents of King Desiderius, and in the 9th century possessed estates on Lakes Commo and Maggiore. A certain Ottone, who distinguished himself in the First Crusade, was Viscount of Milan in 1078. The true basis for the families dominion was however laid by another Ottone, a canon of Desio, appointed Archbishop of Milan by Pope Urban IV in 1262 through the influence of Cardinal Ubaldini. The Delia Torre family, who then controled Milan, opposed the appointment, and not until his victory at Desic in 1277 was Ottone able to take possession of the city. He imprisoned Napoleone Delia Torre and five of his relatives in iron cages, and directed his later efforts toward the advancement of his nephew Matteo. He died on the 18th of August 1295, at the age of 80. Matteo, born at Invorio on the 15th of August 1255, succeeded his uncle as political leader of Milan, and although a Delia Torre uprising in 1302 compelled him to take refuge in Verona, his steadfast loyalty to the Imperial cause in Italy earned him the gratitude of Henry VII, who restored him to Milan in 1310 and made him Imperial Vicar of Lombardy. He brought under his rule Piacenza, Tortona, Pavia, Bergamo, Vercelli, Cremona, and Alessandro. Matteo was an able general and was esteemed as the model prudent Italian despot. A quarl with Pope John XXII over an appointment to the Archbishopric of Milan brought him to excommunication in 1322. He at once abdicated in favor of his son Galeazzo, and died at Crescenzago on the 24th of June, 1322. He had four other sons besides Galeazzo: Marco, Lucchino, Giovanni, and Stefano. Galeazzo I (1277-1328), who ruled Milan from 1322-1328, met the Holy Army which the Pope had sent against the Visconti at Vaprio on the Adda in 1324, and defeated it with the aid of the Emperor Louis the Bavarian. In 1327 he was imprisoned by the Emperor at Monza because he was thought guilty of making peace with the church and was released only on the intercession of his friend Castruccio Castracane. By his wife Beatrice d'Este he had the son Azzo who succeeded him. His brother Marco commanded a band of Germans, conquered Pisa and Lucca and died in 1329. Azzo (1302-1339) bought the title of the Imperial Vicar for 25,000 Florins from Emperor Louis. He conquered ten towns, murdered his uncle Marco in 1329, suppressed a revolt lead by his cousin Lodrisio, reorganized the administration of his estates, and was succeeded in turn by his uncles Lucchino and Giovanni. Lucchino made peace with the church in 1341, bought Parma from Obizzo d'Este, and made Pisa dependant on Milan. Although he showed ability as general and governor, he was jealous and cruel, and was poisoned in 1349 by his wife Isabella Fieschi. Giovanni, Archbishop of Milan and lord of the city from 1349 to 1354, was one of the most notable characters of his time. He befriended Petrarch, extended the Visconti sway over Bologna (1350), defied Pope Clement VI, annexed Genoa (1353), and died on the 5th of October 1354 after having established the rule of his family over a large part of northern Italy. The state was partitioned after the death of Giovanni among his brother Stefano's three sons, Matteo II, Galeazzo II, and Bernabo. Matteo II, who succeeded to Bologna, Lodi, Piacenza and Parma, abandoned himself to the most revolting immorality, and was assassinated in 1355 by direction of his brothers, who thenceforth governed the state jointly and with considerable ability. Galeazzo II, who held his court at Pavia, was handsome and distinguished, the patron of Petrarch, the founder of the University of Pavia and a gifted diplomat. He married his daughter Violante to the Duke of Clarence, son of Edward III of England, giving a dowry of 200,000 Florins; and his son Gian Galeazzo to Isabella, daughter of King John of France. He died in 1378. Bernabo, who held court at Milan, was involved in constant warfare. He fought Popes Innocent VI and Urban V, who proclaimed a crusade against him. He fought the Emperor Charles IV. He endeavoured to exercise sole power in the state after the death of his brother, but his young nephew Gian Galeazzo plotted against him and put him to death in 1385. Gian Galeazzo became joint ruler of the Milanese territories on the death of his father in 1378, and sole ruler on the death of his uncle seven years later. He founded the cathedral of Milan, improved the University of Pavia and restored the University of Piacenza. His government was excellent, he was an able economical administrator, and was reputed to be one of the wealthiest princes of his time. His grand ambition was to unite Italy under the rule of the Visconti. He conquered Verona in 1387, and in the following year, with the aid of the Venetians, took Padua. He plotted successfully against the rulers of Mantua and Ferrara, and having seized control of all of Lombardy he turned his attention to Tuscany. In 1399 he bought Pisa and seized Siena. The Emperor Wenceslaus had already conferred on him the title Duke of Milan for 100,000 Florins, reserving only Pisa, and refused to take arms against him. Gian Galeazzo took Perugia, Lucca, and Bologna (1400-1401) and was besieging Florence when he died of the plague in September of 1402. His sons, Giovanni Maria and Filippo Maria, were mere boys at the time of his death, and were taken under the protection of the celebrated Condottieri Facino Cane de Cesale, but most of Gian Galeazzo's conquests were lost to his self seeking generals. Giovanni Maria was proclaimed Duke of Milan in 1402, displayed an insane cruelty, and was killed in 1412. Filippo Maria succeeded his brother as Duke of Milan. State Affairs The Duchy of Milan is a loyal member of the Holy Roman Empire Ambassadors Residing at the Milanese Court Nikolai Ketrana of Cyprus Longinus of the Greif, representative of Pomerania Manfred Eisenhauer, representative of Wuerttemberg Milanese Ambassadors Baron Niccolo Della Milano, Representative of Milan at the Imperial Diet in Nuremberg Francesco Sforza, currently residing at the Pomeranian court in Stettin Pascal Rozarrio, residing in Wuerttemberg Last edited by Jagiellonian; 17-01-2003 at 23:43.

04-01-2003, 00:29	#2
J. Passepartout Shah Space Invader Join Date: Apr 2002 Posts: 4,208	Two men walked into court. "Hello. I am Prince Koukolos, of Cyprus. I have been traveling through Europe and have thought I would pay you a visit and drop off an ambassador at the same time. This is Nikolai Ketrana." The prince stopped as a lady entered the room, who looked as though she might be related to Fillipo. "Um, is that beautiful lady of rank?" Koukolos had fallen in love with her, and was determined to stay in Milan until he had permission from her father to marry her. He just hoped she was nobility or even a relation of the duke, for it would be easier that way... __________________ Herr Passepartout und Austria Tales da iberia- Portugal Sultans of Swing- Kingdom of Jerusalem. Little Green Men Timid Timurids? The Post-Lenkh Years; or I was a teenage dictator The Golden Pig and the Concrete Porker: A Rather Silly Story

04-01-2003, 01:17	#4
J. Passepartout Shah Space Invader Join Date: Apr 2002 Posts: 4,208	"Yes, she is pretty, and looks older than you say. I thought there would be far less than 12 years between us." Nikolai looked at the prince. There was an old hereditary madness in the family of the king, which had avoided the living members. Perhaps it was manifesting itself now. __________________ Herr Passepartout und Austria Tales da iberia- Portugal Sultans of Swing- Kingdom of Jerusalem. Little Green Men Timid Timurids? The Post-Lenkh Years; or I was a teenage dictator The Golden Pig and the Concrete Porker: A Rather Silly Story

04-01-2003, 22:50	#5
Bagricula Corporal Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Just Left of the Center of the Universe Posts: 26	A benedictine monk, wearing the black robes of the order and carrying a wooden rosary, approaches the dais murmuring Ave Marias. Father Benedict Magini speaks slowly and effectively, "Your Excellency, Filippo Maria Visconti, Principe di Milano, I come humbly bearing the mandates of His Most Serene and Pacific Majesty, your liege, the Emperor of Humanity, Erich I. He has sent me to request from you a delegate in his parliament in Nuremburg so that the interests and wisdom of Milano may be presented before His Most August Imperial Majesty." __________________ "He who controls the sea, controls the spice, and he who controls the spice, controls the wealth of the world!" Appearing as the Most Serene Republic of St. Mark in the Baroque RPG

08-01-2003, 20:06	#7
Longinus Lost in Space Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: I would't call it a paradise but I do love it. Posts: 39	Few young knights enters the ducal court, they all bow before the duke and one of the steps forward. Their clothes are definitely from the North Germany as well as firm faces. He starts to speak in German and his translatol repeats his words in italian. "Noble Duke, I bring greetings and salutations from the far lands of Pommerania. I come before you to say that although so distant we are brother in faith and in the Empire. I am Longinus of the Greif, youngest brother of Joachim of the Greif, Regent-Protector of Pommerania. Know that Francesco Sforza have been well recieved in Stettin and this very visit evoked the idea of the jouney in my brother's head. He suggested me that a journey to Italy might be a good idea for my education and future life. I decided to hear his suggestion and travel to sunny lands of Italian pennisula in order to visit them, learn new cultures and perhaps study in famous italian universities. A rumor says that new, bright light is comming from here, light of renaissance. Should you accept me and my friends in your court I will stay in Milan and learn your kin." After saying that Longinus bows slightly and awaits dukes anwser. __________________ General chaos and disarray in Poland, the Great Interregnum of Anno Domini 1382. Royal Court of Poland in the Medieval EURPG

04-01-2003, 01:12	#3
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	I welcome you to Milan, Prince Koukolos. I extend the friendship of my people and my court to you and yours. I also happily welcome your ambassador as a resident of Milan and worthy representative of your Kingdom. The lady you see is none other than my dearest child Bianca, her mother died many years ago and she is the only thing in the world I cherish. Of course I will eventually consider a suitable groom for her, but only when she is of age. As you see yourself, she is now only 5 years old, much too young to fullfill the roles of wife and mother. However, I take it as a fine sign that despite her young age you already so openly express your affection for her. Perhaps it is heavenly ordained that our two houses will one day be joined in holy matrimony. Prince, if your intentions are pure, wait for her hand but 8 years. Come to me in the first quarter of the year of our lord 1438, and then I shall give your intentions serious consideration. Are there any other matters which you wish to take up with Milan?

04-01-2003, 23:53	#6
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	"My good Friar, your visit in our city fills me with joy. Please inform his most August Majesty that I beg His forgiveness for not contacting Him earlier. Indeed I did intend to make the trip to Nuremberg personaly, hoping for a personal interview with our Holy Emperor. As you see, my court is a mess, and we have been quite busy these past few weeks organizing the court and bringing matters into general order. Please, allow me to introduce Baron Niccolo Della Milano." A young handsome man, no older than 25, enters the room. He is dressed all in black, a long red feather in his cap, a small silver crusifix on a slender silver chain resting on his breast. It is the unmistakable uniform of the Visconti clan. "The Baron will act as my delegate in the Imperial Diet at Nuremberg. If, Friar, you are returning straight to that city, perhaps you shall travel together? Please send his most August Majesty my warmest regards, and also tell Him that as soon as I organize my matters in Milan I will personally visit Him, for I feel we have much to discuss. What say you Friar?"

09-01-2003, 05:25	#8
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	The Duke speaks: "I greet you in Milan, young Longinus. I feel true kin to you and your brother, and do not deny that your family are considered the closest friends of the Visconti clan. I have had in the past many prophetic dreams, and this our meeting was amongst them. I dare say our two houses will enjoy a long and fruitful friendship, and indeed will one day become one great house, whose glory will be unbound. I greet you in Milan, young Longinus, not only as a friend, but as a brother. Stay in Milan as long as you wish, and visit me often, for I would like to better know you. My servant will show you to your rooms. Tommorow we will feast, to celebrate your safe arrival. And now I bid you good night, go with God.

12-01-2003, 04:31	#9
Auspend Category 5 Survivor Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: La Nouvelle Orleans Posts: 237	A German ambassador is escorted into the court of Milan. "My lord, I have come from your cousin, Heinrich of Wuerttemberg, to be his ambassador in your court. My name is Manfred Eisenhauer. He is pleased that the land of Milan seems to have become active again in international politics." __________________ Diplomacy Beta Tester EU:M veteran. I miss being Wurttemburg. I am now the survivor of a Category 5 hurricane. I lived through the wind and rain only to be forced out by the rising water. To all those left in the city, I hope and wish you all make it out okay.

12-01-2003, 04:39	#10
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	The Duke speaks: "My dear Manfred, it fills me with joy that your Lord has chosen to send you to Milan. Know that you are welcome to stay as long as you wish. If you have any needs, please, do not hesitate to speak with me."

12-01-2003, 12:08	#11
Wulfram 1 Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: One Posts: 447	A letter arrives from Venice "Filippo Maria Visconti, Duke of Milan, The Republic of Venice welcomes any treaty that will expand and secure our trade. We await your proposals eagerly Signed, Antonio Mocenigo, Duke of Venice and Dalmatia" __________________ 1 Last edited by Wulfram; 12-01-2003 at 19:59.

12-01-2003, 18:32	#12
Jarlen av Juks Taskenspiller Extraordinaire Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Bergen Docks Posts: 473	A messenger from Naples enters the Ducal Court. With a bow he presents the Duke with a letter bearing the seal of the House of Durazzo. Esteemed Duke, It was with great pleasure and joy we read your recent letter. I salute your good intentions and wish to extend the good will of Naples to your Duchy as well. Your keen observations of the political state of the peninsula fills me with hope that we shall enjoy a period of friendly bonds between our nations and greater prosperity for all. I will endeavour to send a represenative to your court soon and hope you will reciprocate by sending an envoy to Naples. Signed in friendship, Conte Ardo de Fierto, for His Majesty Principe Sergio I

12-01-2003, 23:19	#13
Longinus Lost in Space Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: I would't call it a paradise but I do love it. Posts: 39	Not even a week passed when Joachim of the Greif returned to Stettin when a guest, expected but also quite surprising, arrived in Pommern. Joachim greeted Duke of Milan with barely hidden intrest in his eyes. His posture impressed him very much as he was facing man of expierience and a man of vision at the same time. "I would say he is most courious person I have met during the last years." Joachim felt somehow uneasy looking into deep, brown eyes of Filippo Maria Visconti, Duke of Milan. His words surprised Joachim even more, he cough slightly in order to cover his confusion and moment later he replied bowing before Visconti. "Noble Duke, Your presence here is a honour to the House of the Greif. You call me a friend and friendship is the greatest treasure of two people and I dare to reply... My friend welcome in Stettin." He pauses for a moment and then continiue. "Your ambassador, noble Francesco Sforza, has informed me about your journey here and about your wish. Know that I will be most happy to grant you a blessing and hand of my sister. I have heard much about you and now when I see you and hear you, your presence tells everthing. I can see great passion in your eyes. This passion... I have heard of prophetic dreams you have, rumors says that you were blessed by God Almighty just as my beloved brother, Albert-Boguslav, hero and leader of the last crusade. Perjhaps you could share with me this passion during one of our future conversations?" With this words he approaches Visconti and smiles. "I hope that you will enjoy your presence in Stettin during these winter months. Our fireplaces are warm but strong wind from Baltic may sometimes overcome them." __________________ General chaos and disarray in Poland, the Great Interregnum of Anno Domini 1382. Royal Court of Poland in the Medieval EURPG

13-01-2003, 13:11	#14
Wulfram 1 Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: One Posts: 447	A letter arrives from Venice "Duke Filippo Maria Visconti of Milan, The Senate feels that the treaty you have proposed would place unacceptable restrictions on our independence and freedom of action, as well as our freedom to trade. Also, it is felt that given our extensive interests in the east it would be unwise to tie ourselves too strongly to mainland Italy. We wish you luck in your endeavour however, and would be interested in friendly relations with your alliance should it form. Signed, Antonio Mocenigo, Doge of Venice and Dalmatia" __________________ 1

13-01-2003, 15:36	#15
Jarlen av Juks Taskenspiller Extraordinaire Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Bergen Docks Posts: 473	A young man clad in fanciful clothes approaches and addresses the Duke. -" Greetings Lord of Milan, I, Cavaliere Pierro de Reggio, am here on the behest of his most Christian Majesty Principe Sergio I of Naples. He regrets he has been unable to send an envoy earlier and hopes my presence here will remedy the situation. We have heard words of a discussion regarding a proposed treaty between your Dukedom and the Republic of Venice, allegedly also involving the Kingdom of Naples... Although official word of such a treaty has not reached Naples we are less than enthusiastic with regards to such a binding agreement with the Republic of Venice. In addendum, the balance of goods between the signing members does not seem favour Naples at this moment. Nevertheless, we hope to remain on good terms in the future and I will, with your permission, remain here to facilitate dialogue between glorious Milan and Naples." de Reggio bows and retreats from view.

13-01-2003, 18:28	#16
Jagiellonian Corporal Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alta. Posts: 28	A steward enters the room, and speaks to the guest: "My Lord de Reggio, my Lord Duke has been expecting an ambassador from Naples, and welcomes You to Milan. Unfortunatly the Duke is away and is unable to greet You. I shall escort You to Your quarters. Feel free to call for me if ever need be. The Duke should return to Milan in the coming weeks."

14-01-2003, 16:56	#17
Jarlen av Juks Taskenspiller Extraordinaire Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Bergen Docks Posts: 473	Cavaliere de Reggio returns to court to bring news to Milanese Steward. Good Sir, I am instructed on behalf of my master, Principe Sergio of Naples, to let you know that he is honoured by the invitation to your Lord's wedding. He and Principessa Angelena will both be attending. de Reggio makes a small bow and leaves the hall.

14-01-2003, 17:50	#18
Jarlen av Juks Taskenspiller Extraordinaire Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Bergen Docks Posts: 473	A herold bearing a red tunic decorated with the coat of Arms of the House of Durazzo enters the court and unfurls a long parchment from which he declares the following: “He-eeee-aa-r Yee! He-eeee-aa-r Yee!! I bring news from the Court of Naples! The House of Durazzo is pleased to announce that one of its most senior members, Duca Ferrante d’Apulia, is to wed the Infanta de Castilla, Duquesa Eleonore de Arión. This momentous occasion will take place in Naples on June 3rd, year of Our Lord 1430 (ooc: Monday) and we hereby have the pleasure of inviting the Duke Visconti to Naples to join us in the celebration. We would be truly honoured to see you in our fair city on this grand day! In Friendship, Principe Sergio I, King of Naples The Herold bows deeply and exits.

15-01-2003, 15:22	#19
dantheman12345 Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: I live in a town called Redditch in Worcestershire Posts: 3	A Piemontian man enter the court. 'I wonder if you recognise me my Lord I am Louis Sforza. I see you have done well for yourself as have I. I hope now to irradicate all confusion by stating I am no relation to the Milanese Sforzas it is just a coincidance we share the same name. My lady who is currently in Mourning over the death of her late husband. Wishes to invite you and your daughter to his funeral and the Coronation of her son. The designated heir of Piemonte King Charles-Phillippe Sforza. Who I beleive is the exact same age as your daughter. My Queen wishes me to ask the bretrothal of your daughter to my lord sovereign. She asks I give you this. Louis Hand the Duke a letter and an official parchment. Dearest Filippo I feel that the time has come for me to leave my state of mourning. My late husband had certain documants he wished me show you. Treaty of Marrage. My friend as you know my new wife has a son from her first marrage to Daniel Sforza. As I have no children of mine own I shall leave him my state if I die. But I heard knews of your daughter and began to think. My grandfather lost the provence of Savoy so I ask that you consider my step-sons hand for your daughter. I have prepared a contract for you eyes. 1.The daughter of the Duke shall reside at estates in both Piemonte and Milan untill her sixteenth birthday. 2. Upon this day Chales-Phillippe who shall already be 16 shall be conducted to Milan to begin a 4-month courtship of your daughter. 3. The Children of this marrage shall bear the Crown of Piemonte and a Milanese title. 4. The title of 'Queen of Piemonte' shall be confirmed upon your daughter at her coronation as well as the Title 'Countess Glamour' which is the title bourn by all wives of the Head Sforza in the Piemontian Branch of the Family. 5. A series of estates shall be made availiable to the couple in both states. 6. The children of Charles and Maria shall be heirs to both Milan and Piemonte untill yourself Filippo has a son. 7. The Children of this union shall always have a claim to the Ducal title of Milan and cannot act upon this unless all male heirs from the Duke of Milan are exhausted. The Letter continues. I hope to see you in Piemonte for my Husbands funeral (Saturday). Yours under Christ Maria Sforza-Savoy

15-01-2003, 15:26	#20
Jarlen av Juks Taskenspiller Extraordinaire Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Bergen Docks Posts: 473	The Neapolitans arrive The Ducal court of Milan is entered by a large congregation of people. Standards and banners flying the colours of Naples and those of the House of Durazzo are carried by servants in front of the group as they make their way to the throne. Once there, a Herold speaks: Esteemed Duke, May I introduce to you His most Christian Majesty Principe Sergio I, King of Naples and at his side the Principessa Angelena. My Lord is pleased to be in Milan and looks forward to the coming wedding. However, he regrets that he will have to leave your fair Dukedom shortly after the official ceremony as much is in work in Naples and his presence is needed before long.