Lucrezia Borgia was the daughter of future pope Alexander VI, and her three marriages into influential families helped build the political power of her own family. Historians debate whether or not Borgia was an active participant in her notorious family’s crimes, but interest in her has inspired countless works of art, books, and films.
Background
Borgia was born on April 18, 1480, in Subiaco, near Rome. She was the daughter of Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, who would later become Pope Alexander VI, and one of his mistresses, Vannozza Cattanei, who was also the mother of Borgia's two older brothers, Cesare and Giovanni. Borgia reportedly spoke and wrote several languages, among them Italian, French, Latin and Greek.
Borgia was born during the Italian Renaissance, when artists, architects, and scientists were reaching new levels of accomplishment and transforming their world. While famous figures such as Leonardo da Vinci were innovating their way into history, the Borgia legacy, conversely, is one of violent political corruption involving a power-hungry clan who sought to control large parts of Italy.
Education
Lucrezia was educated according to the usual curriculum of Renaissance ladies of rank, and was taught languages, music, embroidery, painting.
Career
In 1503, Borgia’s father, Pope Alexander, died, and with him many of Cesare's remaining plots died as well. Borgia's life became more stable, and when Alfonso’s father died in 1505, Borgia and Alfonso became the reigning duke and duchess of Ferrara. Over the next several years, Borgia gained a reputation as a patron of the arts, and she presided over a famed and flourishing artistic community.
In 1512, Borgia withdrew from public life and turned to religion. It is speculated that her withdrawal was in response to the news that Rodrigo, her son by Alfonso of Aragon, had died. On June 24, 1519, ten days after giving birth to a stillborn girl, Borgia died at the age of 39.
Personality
Borgia was famed for her beauty and charm. Lucrezia was slender with light blue-green eyes and golden hair, which she later bleached to maintain its goldenness.