Florence was considered the heart of the early Renaissance because it was a thriving center of artistic, intellectual, and cultural activity during this time period. The city was home to influential figures such as the Medici family, who were wealthy patrons of the arts and supported the work of artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Florence also had a vibrant trade economy, which allowed for the exchange of ideas and goods with other cities in Italy and beyond. The city's focus on humanism and the revival of classical learning further contributed to its reputation as a hub of Renaissance innovation and creativity.
