At only 17 Lorenzo bravely foils an ambush against his father, saving his family and securing the position of the Medici in Florence. He proves he is a force to be reckoned with.

But he also lives life to the full. Regularly seen on the town with his brother and friends, he enjoys wine, women and song - and occasional scuffles in the street with rival families.

Lorenzo marries young, at only 19. But he has a good relationship with his wife, Clarice, and writes often, and fondly, whenever he’s away. Together, they bring up seven children, and educate them well.

Lorenzo’s life is in constant danger, especially in 1478, when his beloved younger brother is publicly murdered. Lorenzo writes to his friend, the Duke of Milan, “A terrible thing has happened - they’ve killed my brother! Help!“

Lorenzo’s reputation as a patron of genius is second to none, encompassing Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo and others. But he dies young, leaving his city, his family and his legacy at the mercy of a fundamentalist.