The Aristocracy of Southern Tuscany

In this chapter we look at the aristocracy of southern Tuscany, where the signoria territoriale was more widely diffused and the dependence of the peasantry more general. Here we encounter the Aldobrandeschi, the southern equivalent of the Guidi. Beginning with their contention with the monastery of Monte Amiata and its subjection, we trace the family’s long process of transformation from imperial functionaries to a territorial dynasty. We look closely at their clientele, part of which was feudo-vassalic, and at the multiple functions of southern castles, including mineral extraction and industrial use. From these we turn to the minor aristocracy, the lambardi, whom Cortese calls ‘puntiform’, that is to say nuclear or local. We look at their consorterie, their control of natural resources, and their capacity for enterprise. Their residences within castles will also be examined. Finally the chapter looks at the fortunes of these signori in terms of the forward march of the city of Siena.