The House of Farnese were an influencial family In Renaissance Italy whose members included Pope Paul III, numerous dukes, the Governor of the Spanish Netherlands, cardinals, and the Queen of Spain. They were a minor family with origins first recorded in 984 AD in the smalll town of Farnese east of Capalbio, and rose in importance through the following centuries through loyalty to the papacy, deft politcal maneuvering, and battlefield bravery.

The Villa Farnese in Caprarola east of Lago di Vico is an extraordinary building, a fortified castle built by the future pope, who was a significant patron of Michaelangelo, and converted into a sumptuous villa by his grandson. Its architecture and decorations, including the famous map room, reflect the power of their artistic patronage and politcal influence. Go see it. Amazing.