The main cultural significance of the Renaissance was its revival of classical learning and values, marking a departure from the medieval period. Spanning roughly from the 14th to the 17th centuries, the Renaissance fostered advancements in the arts, sciences, literature, and humanism. It encouraged a focus on individual potential and achievements, leading to innovative ideas and artistic accomplishments exemplified by figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Additionally, the Renaissance laid the groundwork for the Reformation and the modern world by promoting critical thinking, exploration, and a broader understanding of humanity's place in the universe, thus redefining cultural and intellectual pursuits.