The major cultural movement that occurred in Europe in the 14th century was the Renaissance. This period signified a rebirth of classical knowledge and an emphasis on humanism. Starting in Italy, the Renaissance spread across Europe, inspiring advancements in art, literature, and science. Artists such as Giotto and later Botticelli embraced realism and perspective, while writers like Dante and Petrarch revived classical texts and themes. The invention of the printing press in the mid-15th century further disseminated Renaissance ideas, contributing to significant societal changes. The movement laid the foundation for modern Western thought, shaping culture and philosophy for centuries to come.