Italian dynasties were powerful families that ruled various regions of Italy during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Notable examples include the Medici in Florence, who were influential in banking and the arts, and the Sforza in Milan, known for their military prowess and patronage of culture. These families often engaged in political alliances and rivalries, shaping the landscape of Italian politics. Many Italian dynasties contributed to the cultural and artistic achievements of the time. The Gonzaga family in Mantua supported artists like Andrea Mantegna, while the Este in Ferrara were patrons of Ludovico Ariosto. Their influence helped foster the flourishing of the Renaissance in Italy.