The empire known for its art and literature during the Renaissance was the Italian city-states, particularly Florence. The Renaissance, spanning the 14th to 17th centuries, was characterized by a renewed interest in classical art, literature, and humanism. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael produced iconic works that emphasized realism, perspective, and human emotion. Literature also flourished, with figures like Dante and Petrarch paving the way for modern Italian language and poetry. This cultural rejuvenation laid the groundwork for significant advancements in various fields, including science, philosophy, and politics, reshaping European society.