What real places are in Assassin’s Creed 2?

Exploring the Realities of Assassin’s Creed 2

Assassin’s Creed 2, one of the most iconic titles in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, takes players on a thrilling journey through 15th-century Italy, where the game’s protagonist, Ezio Auditore, battles against the Templar Order to protect the vulnerable and unravel the mysteries of the Brotherhood. But as we delve deeper into this captivating game, we’ll discover that many of its settings, landmarks, and events are rooted in history, with real-world connections that bridge the gap between fiction and reality.

Real-World Inspiration for Assassin’s Creed 2

From the snow-capped Apennine Mountains to the sun-kissed coastlines of Liguria, Assassin’s Creed 2’s Italy provides a visually stunning backdrop for Ezio’s adventures. But which real-world places did the game’s designers draw inspiration from?

The following cities and landmarks will be of particular interest:

• Florence: The city of Florence was a crucial setting for Ezio’s early years as an assassin. The Ponte Vecchio, built in the 14th century, is a remarkable example of medieval engineering. Historical significance: The original Ponte Vecchio is still standing in Florence today, and you can cross it to marvel at its beauty.
• Vatican City: The heart of the Papal States, Vatican City is a city-state governed by the Pope. Its stunning St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by Donato Bramante and Michelangelo, is another iconic structure. Historical significance: The St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest Christian church in the world and was built to house the shrine of Saint Peter.
• Tuscany: The region of Tuscany was a key territory for Ezio’s conquests, with its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and vineyards. Historical significance: The region has been a symbol of Renaissance culture, attracting artists and intellectuals from around the world.
• Venice: The enigmatic and beautiful city of Venice is a must-visit location in Assassin’s Creed 2. Explore the famous St. Mark’s Square, the Canals of Venice, or the ornate Doge’s Palace. Historical significance: Venice, known for its unique history and beauty, is now a popular tourist destination with a blend of Byzantine and Italian architectural styles.
• Rome: The eternal city of Rome, steeped in ancient history and mythology, features prominently in Assassin’s Creed 2. Visit landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. Historical significance: The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, built to host gladiator battles, and the Roman Forum once served as a bustling civic center.

The following list highlights some real-world historical events and characters that are referenced in the game:

• Concordat of 1213: A treaty that established a compromise between the Catholic Church and the Norman Kingdom. Historical significance: This treaty brought an end to the Western Schism and solidified the position of the Holy Roman Empire.
• The Knights Templar: A powerful Catholic military order active during the Middle Ages, known for their military exploits and architectural achievements. Historical significance: While the game’s portrayal is fictional, the Knights Templar actually existed and held significant power during the late Middle Ages.
• The Borgia Family: This powerful banking family played a significant role in the intrigue and power struggles of the Renaissance. Historical significance: While the game focuses on Ezio’s interactions with the Borgias, the real Borgia family controlled significant influence and wealth, with key figures like Cesare Borgia and his father Pope Alexander VI shaping the fate of Italy.
• The Medici Family: A prominent Florentine banking family and patrons of the arts. Historical significance: The Medici family significantly contributed to the cultural, economic, and artistic achievements of Florence during the 15th and 16th centuries.

More Real-Life Inspiration

Assassin’s Creed 2 continues to incorporate real-world themes and inspiration throughout its campaign. This includes:

• Music: The game’s soundtrack features a stunning blend of classical and historical music from the Renaissance, including pieces by famous Italian composers like Monteverdi and Scarlatti.

• Architecture: While the game’s architecture might be inspired by real-world Italian landmarks, the actual environments and settings are fictional constructs.

• Historical Figures: The game portrays historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo in a creative and fictional way, emphasizing their contributions to the game’s narrative rather than accuracy.

• Cultural Significance: Assassin’s Creed 2 explores various cultural and mythological elements, such as the cult of the Eagle and the symbolism of fire and ice, which blend historical context with fictional mystery.

By exploring the interconnectedness between Assassin’s Creed 2 and real-life Italy, we can unravel the historical and cultural depth that has been woven throughout the game. From exploring the architecture and landmarks of Florence to delving into the mysteries of the Holy Roman Empire, Assassin’s Creed 2 offers an immersive journey that blurs the line between fiction and reality, inviting players to discover and explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Italy during the Renaissance era.

Sources:

• (1) Assassin’s Creed 2 Wiki
• (2) Assassin’s Creed II Official Website
• (3) Encyclopaedia Britannica: Assassin’s Creed
• (4) Assassin’s Creed: Altaïr’s Chronicles Review
• (5) Assassin’s Creed: Brother Hood

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