The Renaissance began in Italy during the 14th century, marking a period of renewed interest in art, science, and the classical knowledge of ancient Greece and Rome. This cultural and intellectual revival spread throughout Europe over the next few centuries, influencing a broad range of disciplines including literature, philosophy, and visual arts. Key figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo emerged during this time, producing extraordinary works that changed the course of Western civilization. The Renaissance laid the groundwork for the modern era, encouraging critical thinking, exploration, and scientific inquiry.