Let's first start with Italy. Why did the Renassiance start in Italy? One major reason was Italy's location and political situation. Its city-states were on the Mediterranean Sea, which were perfect centers for trade and banking. Because of the ports and the fact that the Holy Roman Empire basically had lost all its power, the leading families, bankers and merchants quickly grew rich and powerful. These people then paid artists to make paintings, providing them with neccessities so they could focus on their talent. The Church highly influenced Italy that brought power, wealth and education. Due to the Church, many merchants became so wealthy, that they were able to spend money on luxuries such as art and science. The last reason was the heritage/history