Homo sapiens emerged 40,000 years ago in Europe. Neolithic Age began with agriculture and stone tools. Greek culture influenced Roman Empire and Western civilization. Roman Empire lasted 500 years, shaping modern Europe. Viking Age (8th-13th centuries) explored Europe for trade
Papal States were territories governed by the papacy from 756 to 1870. Bishops first acquired lands around Rome in the 4th century. Pope Gregory consolidated papal holdings into unified territory. Pippin III's donation in 756 established legal foundation
Edward Berger directed the 2024 film based on Robert Harris's novel. Ralph Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, leading a papal conclave investigation. Film premiered at Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024. Released in US on October 25, 2024, UK on November 29, 2024
Established in 1475 by Pope Sixtus IV as the Palatine Library. Contains 75,000 codices and 1.1 million printed books. Originally organized through notebooks and shelf lists. Pope Nicholas V envisioned a public library for humanist scholarship
Born in Bologna in 1552 to painter Prospero Fontana. Trained by her father and later under Denis Calvaert. Became first female career artist in Western Europe. Married Count Gian Paolo Zappi in 1577, supporting her artistic career
Born in Urbino in 1483 to court painter Giovanni Santi. Orphaned at eleven, managed family workshop from early age. Trained under Perugino from 1500, becoming fully trained master