203 - Piedmont and the Savoy in the early 1500's - How to lose a duchy

Episode OverviewContinuing our tour of the Italian peninsula in the early 1500s, we move north from the Kingdom of Naples, through the Papal States and Tuscany, across the Apennines, past Genoa, and into what is today the region of Piedmont.

In this episode we explore the key political players in the region — the Marquisate of Saluzzo, the Marquisate of Monferrato, and above all the Duchy of Savoy.

Once an expanding Alpine power controlling vital mountain passes, Savoy would find itself caught between the ambitions of France and the Habsburg Empire during the Italian Wars. The result was a dramatic collapse that nearly erased the duchy entirely — setting the stage for the unexpected rise of a remarkable new duke.

Piedmont: Geography and Historical ContextPiedmont today is one of Italy’s 20 regions and is divided into several provinces.In the early 1500s, however, its territories were divided among multiple states, including:The Marquisate of SaluzzoThe Marquisate of MonferratoThe Duchy of SavoySome areas, such as Novara, actually belonged to the Duchy of Milan at the time.

Strategically located near the Alpine passes, Piedmont became a crucial corridor during the Italian Wars, especially for French armies entering Italy.

The Marquisate of SaluzzoSaluzzo maintained strong ties with France.Its influence declined after the death of Marquis Michele Antonio, who was killed fighting for the French in southern Italy.By 1548, the territory would be absorbed by France.When the French were later expelled in 1601, Saluzzo became part of the Duchy of Savoy.

Piedmont in the Italian WarsThe region’s importance stemmed from geography:

France needed control of Alpine routes to access Italy.Spain and the Holy Roman Empire sought to block those routes.Control of Piedmont also offered Charles V a communications corridor between Spain and his northern European territories.

As a result, Piedmont became a constant battlefield for roaming armies and shifting alliances.

The Rise of Powerful European StatesDuring this period, larger European monarchies were becoming increasingly centralized and powerful:

Expanding bureaucracies and legal systems strengthened state control.Universities produced growing administrative classes.The gradual separation of church and state helped consolidate royal authority.

Compared to these emerging powers, many Italian states — including Savoy, Genoa, Venice, and the Papal States — struggled to keep pace politically and militarily.