Baglioni family

A wealthy and ruthless family who dominated Perugia in Italy during the 15th century. They became notorious for the crimes they committed to maintain their position. Giampaolo Baglioni (1470–1520) seized power in 1500 after murdering several leading members of his family. In 1506 he tried to murder Pope Julius II and much later was himself murdered on the orders of Pope Leo X. Ridolfo Baglioni was defeated and exiled by Pope Paul III in the Salt War.

The Baglioni gained their wealth as condottieri (mercenaries) in the 13th century. Their political power was established by Malatesta Baglioni (1389–1427), who was awarded territories by Pope Martin V and who virtually ruled Perugia. From 1488, after killing or exiling their rivals, the Baglioni ruled Perugia unopposed through a council of ten family members.