Bona of Lombardy

Background

Little is known of Bona's life. She was apparently a robust peasant girl from Valtellina in the Alps of Lombardy.

Career

Bona of Lombardy was a mercenary soldier. She wore armor and lived in military camps. Her lover Piero Brunoro of Parma loyally served for many years as lieutenant to the great warlord Francesco Sforza. Piero led 2,000 knights in a ceremonial procession for the marriage of Sforza and Bianca Maria Visconti in 1441. Bona accompanied Piero throughout the course of his career as a professional soldier.

Piero was unjustly accused of betraying the town of Fabriano in the March of Ancona and was thrown into an Aragonese prison around 1444. For ten years Bona ceaselessly petitioned, in person and through friends, King Alfonso, the kings of France and England, and other European notables until she secured Piero's release. Alfonso finally relented, and Bona and Piero were married. They both entered the service of the Venetian Republic and fought to defend Negroponte against the Turks.

Achievements

• Bona of Lombardy and Piero Brunoro participated in Sforza's many military campaigns to consolidate his northern Italian duchy.
  
  Bona was a historical figure whose life has given rise to romantic legends.

Personality

When Bona's husband, Piero, was killed legend says that Bona died of grief.

Physical Characteristics: Bona had a muscular physique reflected her hard life.

Connections

Bona of Lombardy was married to Piero Brunoro.

husband:

Piero Brunoro

References

• Amazons to Fighter Pilots: A Biographical Dictionary of Military Women
  2003