In this class our examination of the Colby campus led to an exploration of Renaissance Italian cities. The strong middle class in port cities and other mercantile hubs led to a flourishing artistic environment. I found it interesting how the structure of Florence was derived from the ancient fort it grew from, and how that layout seems reflected somewhat in Colby’s campus. The architectural style of the Palazzo Vecchio as a symbol of Guelph dominance in the city was also fascinating, as the fortress elements of the structure are completely unnecessary in the middle of a city. The representation of the city’s power through statues and structures reflects the political situations of each era and the continued importance of the city. This is reflected on a smaller level by the art commissioned by the most prominent guilds and placed in public spaces to ensure the population was constantly reminded of the importance of those groups in society. Finally, it was interesting how the rivalry between Franciscan and Dominican friars was reflected in the positioning of their churches and in the art they commissioned.