What is the role of trade and trade cities in Italy?

One could claim that the entire Italian Renaissance can be traced back to the influence of trade and trade cities within Italy. Although Italy didn't necessarily have greater assets or resources than most other parts of Europe, it was able to thrive thanks to the fact that many of its cities were on major trade routes.

One example of how trade positively affected the country could be found in Florence. Because Florence was an important player on the trade route, it became one of Northern Italy's wealthiest cities. It subsequently became a major hub for the financial industry.

With the free flow of goods and services moving about Italy to locations as far as the Mediterranean and beyond, prosperous cities and more cultured people resulted. Many merchants became rich and founded schools and universities, which led to more free-flowing thinking and allowed for cultural ideas to spread. This created the perfect atmosphere for the flourishing of the Italian Renaissance.