Database: Giovanni Auditore

Date of Birth: 1436. Profession: Banker, Advisor, Noble.

Giovanni Auditore was one of the pivotal figures in 15th Century Florentine banking. In charge of overseeing the Medici bank branches across Italy, he kept the Medici machine running while Lorenzo was busy with the government. Extending his reach out into the international operation, it was Giovanni who first noticed the problems with the Lyon bank, causing him to alert Francesco Sassetti, which saved the branch.

Such great talent was well rewarded by Il Magnifico. Giovanni developed a close friendship with Lorenzo de' Medici, becoming one of his closest advisors. Successful negotiations to secure the Pope's support of the Medici bank in 1471 were carried out by Giovanni.

Relieved and grateful, Lorenzo paid for Giovanni's palazzo, as a gift.