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Caterina SforzaCountess of Forlì, illegitimate daughter of Galeazzo Maria Sforza.
Date of Birth: 01.01.1463
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Caterina Sforza, Countess of Forli: A Life of Tragedy and Triumph
- First and Second Marriages
- Revenge and Retribution
- Third Marriage and Borza Rebellion
- Imprisonment and Escape
- Legacy
Caterina Sforza, Countess of Forli: A Life of Tragedy and Triumph
Early Life and FamilyCaterina Sforza was the illegitimate daughter of Galeazzo Maria Sforza, Duke of Milan. Her father was assassinated in the Milan Cathedral, and her young brother, Gian Galeazzo, was imprisoned and murdered by their ruthless uncle, Ludovico Moro.
First and Second Marriages
In 1473, Caterina married Girolamo Riario, a nephew of Pope Sixtus IV. After Riario's murder in a rebellion, she witnessed his naked body being thrown from the window of her castle. Caterina's second husband, Giacomo Feo, of lesser nobility, was also killed in front of her.
Revenge and Retribution
In response to Feo's assassination, Caterina rallied her loyalists and ordered the execution of everyone connected to the killers, regardless of their age or gender. Machiavelli himself documented this brutal act of revenge. She personally supervised the operation, ensuring the complete annihilation of her husband's murderers.
Third Marriage and Borza Rebellion
Caterina's third husband, Pierfrancesco de Medici, died a natural death in 1498. However, her reign in Forli was cut short when Cesare Borgia invaded Italy and captured the city. Caterina was taken prisoner to Rome and held in the Vatican.
Imprisonment and Escape
Caterina attempted to escape her captivity in the Castel Sant'Angelo but was recaptured. Years later, she was released and spent the rest of her life in Florence, where she died in 1509.
Legacy
Caterina Sforza, Countess of Forli, was a complex and fascinating figure. Her life was marked by tragedy, violence, and triumph. Her spirit of resilience and unwavering determination left a lasting impression on Italian history.
