Vannozza dei Cattani

Vannozza (Giovanna) dei Cattani (1442 - ?) was one of the many mistresses of the Pope Alexander VI, whose relation lasted the longest. Her parents were Jacopo and Mencia Pinctoris.

Related Topics:
1442 - Alexander VI

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

She was the wife of three successive husbands.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The connection with Cardinal Borgia began in 1470, and she bore him four children whom he openly acknowledged as his own:

Related Topics:
Borgia - 1470

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

• Giovanni, afterwards duke of Gandia (born 1474);
• Cesare (born 1476);
• Lucrezia (born 1480);
• Goffredo or Giuffre (born 1481 or 1482).

Before his elevation to the papacy Cardinal Borgia's passion for Vannozza somewhat diminished, and she subsequently led a very retired life.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Her place in his affections was filled by the beautiful Giulia Farnese (Giulia Bella), wife of an Orsini, but Alexander VI's love for his children by Vannozza remained as strong as ever and proved, indeed, the determining factor of his whole career. He lavished vast sums on them and loaded them with every honour.

Related Topics:
Giulia Farnese - Orsini

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~