Download or read book The Rise and Decline of the Medici Bank, 1397-1494 written by Raymond De Roover and published by Beard Books. This book was released on 1999 with total page 544 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A classic history of banking and trade in the medieval period, combining superb research and analysis with graceful writing. The Medici Bank was the most powerful banking house of the 15th century. Headquartered in Florence, Italy, it established branches in Rome, Venice, Geneva, Lyons, Bruges, London, and many other cities. The bank served as financial agent of the Church, extended credit to monarchs, and facilitated international trade in Western Europe. By their personal influence and the use of their profits, the owners and administrators of the bank contributed significantly to the development of Florence as the greatest center of the Renaissance.