Chigi is a Roman princely family of Sienese extraction descended from the counts of Ardenghesca, which possessed castles in theMaremma, southern Tuscany. The earliest authentic mention of them is in the 13th century, with one Alemanno, counsellor of the Republic of Siena. The first very prominent member was Mariano (1439–1504), a banker and two times ambassador of Siena to the Popes Alexander VIand Julius II. He founded the Roman branch of the family, the other branch was started by his brother, Benedetto.
- [ READ MORE ]Agostino Chigi (1465–1520) was the most famous member of the family during the Renaissance. " |