Varchi, Benedetto

Benedetto Varchi (1502?-1565), Italian poet and historian, was commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici to write a history of Florence. The resulting Storia Fiorentia comprised 16 books, covering the period from 1527 to 1538. Varchi also wrote plays and poems, and translated classical works.

From the guide to the Benedetto Varchi: Storia Fiorentia, 18th century (copy of 16th century original), (Cambridge University Library, Department of Manuscripts and University Archives)