The Dukes of Milan were powerful rulers in northern Italy during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. They governed the city of Milan and its surrounding territories, playing a significant role in the political and cultural landscape of the region. The most notable families that held the title included the Visconti and Sforza dynasties. Under the leadership of the Dukes of Milan, the city became a center for art, architecture, and military innovation. Notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Ludovico Sforza contributed to Milan's reputation as a hub of creativity and power during this period.