When Was Leonardo Da Vinci Born?

Leonardo da Vinci was born in 1452, in the Tuscan town of Vinci. He was an illegitimate son born to a notary, Piero da Vinci, and a peasant woman, Caterina. At age 14, Leonardo became apprenticed to the artist Andrea del Verrocchio. He received very little formal education and learned from his experiences as an apprentice; he was largely self-taught. As an adult, he traveled throughout Italy and even spent time in France and Spain before returning to Florence where he lived out the remainder of his days until his death on May 2, 1519 at the age of 67. Da Vinci was a prolific painter, sculptor, architect, engineer, and scientist. He is best known for his painting “The Last Supper” (1495–98), an mural depicting the last meal Jesus shared with his twelve disciples before his crucifixion; and a portrait called “Mona Lisa” (1503–06), which remains one of the most famous paintings in the world. Da Vinci died on May 2, 1519, in Amboise, France. He is considered one of the greatest painters of all time as well as one of the greatest polymaths of all time. His work has inspired millions with its intellectual curiosity and creativity.