della Torre (jan 2, 1240 – jan 1, 1277)

Description:

Pagano Della Torre became capitano del populous of Milan in 1240, holding the position until his death in 1259. Martino della Torre is elected Capitano de Popolo by members of the guilds at that time. He took the city by force, expelling his enemies. He ruled by dictatorial powers, paving streets, digging canals, and taxing the countryside. He brought the Milanese treasury to collapse. The use of oft reckless mercenary units further angered the population and increased support for the Della Torre's traditional enemies, the Visconti.

Ottone Visconti was named archbishop of Milan by Pope Urban IV against the candidacy of Raimondo Della Torre. As a result, the Della Torres made allegations that the Visconti had committed high treason through ties to heresy, and the Visconti responded in kind. The Della Torre banned the Visconti from Milan and confiscated their properties. The ensuring civil war lasted over a decade and did significant damage to Milan's population and economy. Ottone Visconti unsuccessfully led a group of exiles against the city in 1263. Napoleone, Pagano's son, gained power in 1265, but died imprisoned by the Visconti in 1277, following he and his brother Francesco, podestá of Besca, Alessandia, Bergamo, Lodi, and Novara, leading the Della Torres against the Visconti in the Battle of Desio. The battle resulted in a Visconti victory which would grant them control over Milan.

Added to timeline:

Date: