Andrea del Carnevale

Andrea was born in Milan in 1494, the younger son of Bendetto del Carnevale and his wife Flavia.

His memories of his infancy are of a steady coming and going of people at the family home, a fine villa in the centre of Milan. Most of the visitors were from prominent Milanese families, although there were occasional foreign visitors. The latter encounters nutured an interest for travel.

His first journey abroad was to Augsburg. There, on behalf of his father, he visited the prominent Fugger family . He learnt much during his stay. However, the cost of Andrea's visit far exceeded the value of the information he returned with.

Hoping that a little financial responsibility might curb his son's excesses, yet allow him to continue to travel, Andrea's father settled an allowance upon his son. The sole condition of that allowance was that Andrea would send regular dispatches, to include all significant news from whichever locality Andrea was visiting.

Eventually, Andrea's travels took him to Rome.

Andrea travelled through Italy, especially he visited the renowned towns of Venice, Torino and Florence. There he heard and learnt a lot about the Medici and the Pope. That was the motive for Andrea to travel south to Rome, all he had heard the centre of the world!

He arrived late October 1514 in the city, finding himself in need of fresh clothes and something to eat. He ascertained the city and found really good clothes and a pretty good restaurant near the Basilica of Saint Peter. He loved the food and the good wine. After the meal he joined the Swiss Guards, sought court companionship and enjoyed the party scene.

He wrote a letter to his father about his experiences and the life in Rome. He pointed out that he intends to stay in Rome and enjoy the party life. His father was not amused but to his surprise Andrea climbed the ladder pretty fast. His son joined the prestigious Barberini faction and he became proud of him!

Other Biographies    The Greasy Pole    Faction Members    Swiss Guards Members    Home