Gian Maria Visconti facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gian Maria Visconti |
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|---|---|
| Duke of Milan | |
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| Duke of Milan | |
| Reign | 3 September 1402 – 16 May 1412 |
| Predecessor | Gian Galeazzo |
| Successor | Filippo Maria |
| Born | 7 September 1388 Abbiategrasso |
| Died | 16 May 1412 (aged 23) Milan |
| Spouse | Antonia Malatesta of Cesena |
| House | Visconti |
| Father | Gian Galeazzo Visconti |
| Mother | Caterina Visconti |
Gian Maria Visconti (also known as Giovanni Maria) was a powerful ruler in Italy. He was the second Duke of Milan, born on September 7, 1388. His parents were Gian Galeazzo Visconti and Caterina Visconti. Gian Maria became duke at a young age and was known for his harsh rule. He died on May 16, 1412, and had no children.
Becoming Duke
Gian Maria Visconti was born in a town called Abbiategrasso. When his father, Gian Galeazzo, passed away, Gian Maria was only thirteen years old. He then became the new Duke of Milan. Because he was so young, his mother, Caterina, helped him rule as his regent. A regent is someone who governs for a young king or duke until they are old enough to rule alone.
Challenges to His Rule
After his father's death, the Duchy of Milan faced many problems. Different groups and powerful leaders wanted control of its lands. One of these leaders was a military commander named Facino Cane. He was a condottiero, which means he led a group of soldiers for hire. Facino Cane became very influential in the duchy.
Facino Cane used Gian Maria's difficult personality to his advantage. He made Gian Maria doubt his own mother, Caterina. As a result, Caterina was put in prison in Monza. She died there on October 17, 1404, under unclear circumstances.
His Marriage
In 1408, Gian Maria married Antonia Malatesta of Cesena. She was the daughter of Carlo I Malatesta, who was the lord of Rimini. Gian Maria and Antonia did not have any children together.
The End of His Reign
Gian Maria's rule was not popular with everyone. A group of important families in Milan, known as the Ghibellines, planned to overthrow him. This plot happened when Facino Cane, the powerful military leader, was very sick in Pavia.
Gian Maria was attacked and killed in front of the church of San Gottardo in Milan. This happened on May 16, 1412. Before Facino Cane died, he made his officers promise to support Filippo Maria Visconti. Filippo Maria was Gian Maria's brother, and he became the next Duke of Milan.
In Books
Gian Maria Visconti's life has been featured in literature. One book is Bellarion the Fortunate by Raphael Sabatini.
