The main focus of the Renaissance period was a revival of interest in the classical art, literature, and learning of Ancient Greece and Rome. This cultural movement began in Italy during the 14th century and spread across Europe, emphasizing humanism, individualism, and secularism. Artists, writers, and thinkers sought to explore classical philosophies, leading to groundbreaking works by figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Petrarch. The Renaissance fostered significant advancements in science, art, and intellectual pursuits, paving the way for the modern age by challenging medieval traditions and encouraging a spirit of inquiry and exploration.