1. Overview
Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro was a prominent 14th-century Italian nobleman who served as the Count of Urbino from 1364 until his death around 1370. His rule marked a period within the complex political landscape of medieval Italy, characterized by powerful noble families, mercenary captains, and shifting alliances. As a member of the influential Montefeltro family, Federico's life and reign were deeply intertwined with the broader aristocratic and military structures of the time.
2. Life
Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro's personal life and familial connections were central to his status and influence within the Italian nobility. His lineage connected him to significant families and figures of the era, shaping his trajectory as a ruler.
2.1. Family and Origin
Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro was the son of Nolfo da Montefeltro, his predecessor as Count of Urbino. His mother was Margherita Gabrielli, a noblewoman from the influential Gabrielli family. Margherita was specifically the daughter of Cante dei Gabrielli, a notable Italian nobleman and respected condottiero. This lineage provided Federico with strong ties to both established noble houses and the powerful military figures who played crucial roles in the political affairs of 14th-century Italy.
2.2. Marriage and Children
Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro was married to Teodora Gonzaga, who was born in 1343. Teodora hailed from the distinguished House of Gonzaga, a prominent family known for their influence in Mantua and beyond. She was the daughter of Ugolino Gonzaga, another renowned condottiero, and his second wife, Camilla della Gherardesca. Together, Federico and Teodora had four sons. Among them, Antonio was the most notable, as he would eventually succeed his father as the Count of Urbino.
3. Reign as Count of Urbino
Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro's tenure as Count of Urbino began in 1364. He maintained his rule over the county until his death, which occurred around 1370. As an Imperial Count, Federico's position held a significant degree of autonomy within the framework of the Holy Roman Empire, allowing him direct feudal ties to the Emperor. During his reign, he continued the governance of Urbino, a period that laid the groundwork for his son's subsequent rule.
4. Succession
Following the death of Federico II Paolo Novello da Montefeltro around 1370, the Countship of Urbino was transferred to his son, Antonio. Antonio succeeded his father, continuing the Montefeltro family's control over Urbino. This transition ensured the uninterrupted lineage of the Montefeltro family in their governance of the county.