Published: 20250318
In the 16th century, Bona Sforza held numerous titles: Grand Duchess of Lithuania, Queen of Poland, and Duchess of Bari and Rosano. She was an active political figure not only in Lithuania and Poland but across Europe. As one of the most legendary rulers of the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Bona brought not only a significant dowry and an entourage from Italy but also the spirit of the Renaissance, which spread throughout her vast domain.
After marrying King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund the Old (1506–1548), Bona left Italy in December 1517. After a five-month journey, she arrived in Kraków in April 1518. At the age of 23, she was young, beautiful, strong-willed, and ready to become an influential ruler—a goal her mother, Isabella of Aragon, had carefully prepared her for.
After nearly 40 years in Northeastern Europe, Bona returned to Bari in 1556, a city she had inherited from her mother. During her reign, she not only advised Sigismund the Old and established diplomatic ties but also made a lasting impact on the region’s politics, administration, and culture. The artists and courtiers she brought from Italy left a significant mark on the cultural life of Lithuania and Poland.
Historians recognize Bona Sforza as one of the most educated and intelligent rulers in Lithuanian and Polish history. She stood out as a shrewd politician, an insightful diplomat, a reformer of state governance and economy, and a promoter of new court traditions. She introduced significant changes in daily life, cuisine, and agriculture.
As one of the largest landowners of the early 16th century, Bona fiercely protected the interests of the Jagiellonian dynasty and played a crucial role in spreading Renaissance culture in Lithuania. It is remarkable how a young Italian noblewoman managed to integrate so successfully into Lithuanian politics and gain such influence.
Bona Sforza’s arrival in Lithuania revolutionized the dietary habits of the nobility. She introduced new vegetables and fruits by bringing seeds from Italy, enriching the royal court’s menu with leeks, white flour, parsley, asparagus, walnuts, grapes, plums, strawberries, and raspberries. Some historians believe that Bona Sforza was also responsible for introducing the two-pronged fork to Lithuania.
In 2021, a bas-relief of Bona Sforza (created by sculptor Jonas Gencevičius) was unveiled in the Renaissance Garden of the Palace of the Grand Dukes. During her reign, Bona commissioned the reconstruction of Vilnius Palace and established a garden next to the residence, where she planted Italian flowers, herbs, and exotic plants.
The garden, which remains open to visitors today, is designed in the Renaissance style, resembling the “giardino segreto” (secret garden), a space traditionally reserved for relaxation, private conversations, and reflection. The garden was once described by Franciscan brother Antonius, who visited Vilnius before the mid-17th century, as "a magnificent Italian-style garden near the castle."
At the Palace of the Grand Dukes, visitors can see a tile bearing Bona Sforza’s coat of arms—a serpent devouring a child—which was discovered by archaeologists at the site of the Lower Castle in Vilnius. The museum also exhibits Renaissance-era tableware, noble attire remnants, and jewelry that may have belonged to Bona’s court. Among the treasures are pearls, jet, jasper, coral beads, a gold chain, and a decorative gold garment accessory.
In the "Reconstructed Historical Interiors" section of the museum, the Queen’s Cabinet displays a graphic artwork of Bona Sforza, along with other depictions of the powerful duchess.
March is International Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate powerful women who have shaped history. Bona Sforza was one such woman, leaving an indelible mark on Lithuania. Her legacy continues to inspire, proving that strong women have always played a vital role in history—and will continue to do so in the future!
