Cronica di Matteo Villani, vol. 5
 A miglior lezione ridotta coll'aiuto de' testi a penna

by Matteo Villani

"Cronica di Matteo Villani, vol. 5" by Matteo Villani is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work serves as a continuation of the chronicles detailing the political and social turbulence of Italy during the late 14th century, with a focus on the power dynamics between various factions, such as the Visconti of Milan and the papal legate. The opening of the chronicle presents an exploration of human pride through historical examples, leading into the significant political events occurring in Bologna, particularly the actions of Bernabò Visconti and the papal legate. It discusses Visconti's military maneuvers, including his attempts to exert control over Bologna, and the subsequent reactions from both the local populace and external forces. The text sets the stage for a deeper narrative concerning power struggles, alliances, and conflicts that characterized Italian city-states during this tumultuous period.