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Hidden Blade

2011-12-12T21:22:08Z

95.247.214.242:

{{era|Chronicles|AC1|Bloodlines|AC2|Discovery|Brotherhood|PL|Revelations|Renaissance|Bbook|Secret Crusade|The Fall|Lineage|Ascendance|Good}}

[[File:Eerste-info-onthuld-over-assassin-s-creed-2_5_460x0.jpg|thumb|300px|Front and back of the hidden blade.]]
{{quote|The hidden blade has been a constant companion of ours over the years. Some would say it defines us - and they would not be entirely wrong. Many of our successes would not have been possible without it.|[[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]]'s [[Codex]], Page 13.|Assassin's Creed II}}

The iconic weapon of the [[Assassins]], the '''Hidden Blade''' was a weapon used for both stealth [[Assassination Targets|assassinations]] and regular combat. It was their most versatile weapon, with multiple upgrades and forms of use.

It consisted of a retractable blade, usually in conjunction with a bracer, which could be discretely extended or retracted; making it a valuable tool for assassinations.

==History==
===Third Crusade===
[[File:AC_Hidden_Bade.jpg|thumb|200px|Altaïr's hidden blade.]]
The Assassin [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] initially wielded a hidden blade, however, due to his failure in retrieving the [[Sixth Apple|Apple of Eden]], and his breaking of all three tenets of [[the Creed]], he was demoted to a [[Novice]] by [[Al Mualim]], and was stripped of his weapons. At his first promotion to the [[Ranks#Rank Two|second rank]] however, he earned back his hidden blade, along with his [[sword]].<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>

Aside from assassinations, the hidden blade was also used in a variety of [[investigation]]s. For missions given by [[informants]], wherein Altaïr was asked to stealthily assassinate a number of targets, he could only make use of his hidden blade or [[throwing knives]] in order to remain undetected. Additionally, after successfully [[Interrogation|interrogating]] a target, Altaïr was forced to kill them so they could not reveal his plans, and did so by burying his hidden blade into their abdomen.<ref name="AC"/>

Although the hidden blade was used mainly for stealth, it could also be used in open conflict, but only for countering enemy attacks.<ref name="AC"/>

===Renaissance===
[[File:Lineage Hidden Blade.png|thumb|250px|left|Giovanni's (later Ezio's) hidden blade.]]
In his own time as an Assassin, [[Giovanni Auditore da Firenze|Giovanni Auditore]] also wielded a hidden blade, albeit one that had been adapted to the change of the times. As outlined in the [[Codex]], the revised blade had been designed by Altaïr so that the Assassins, who he intended to go undercover, could not be identified by their lack of a ring finger.<ref name="Lineage">''[[Assassin's Creed: Lineage]]''</ref><ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>

Furthermore, the mechanism did not require a wrist "flick" to extend the blade, thus the user could retract the blade without any wrist or hand movement. Additionally, as pictured, the weapon could be used with a clenched fist, although Giovanni is one of the few known Assassins to use it in that manner.<ref name="Lineage"/>

[[File:Zw-codex-3.png|thumb|200px|right|The Codex Page for the hidden blade's design.]]
While there is a rotating wheel atop the rear portion of the mechanism's housing (one which turns upon releasing or retracting the blade), its function has not been identified, and there are no known schematics or explanations for the mechanism.<ref name="Lineage"/>

[[Ezio Auditore da Firenze|Ezio Auditore]] inherited the hidden blade from his father, along with his Assassin's robe, the night before the [[Auditore Execution]]. However, the blade was broken due to Giovanni's last fight in [[Rome]] against [[Rodrigo Borgia]] and his men, thus [[Paola]] suggested that Ezio ask [[Leonardo da Vinci]] to repair it. Leonardo was able to do so, with the aid of the schematics detailed in the Codex.<ref name="AC2"/>

Through other Codex pages, Leonardo was able to provide Ezio with a variety of [[Hidden Blade#Upgrades|upgrades]]; such as the addition of a second hidden blade. Ezio made use of these innovations for the majority of his assassinations, and was also able to wield them in battle.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Rome====
[[File:SecondBlade.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The second hidden blade.]]
{{quote|Now I can kill double the guards.|Ezio Auditore, regarding the secondary hidden blade.|Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood}}

Though Ezio possessed the same two hidden blades until 1500, during the [[Fall of Monteriggioni]], he lost most of his weapons, and was only able to salvage the blade and bracer of his father. Upon his arrival in Rome, he was equipped with a single hidden blade, though its bracer had been replaced. Later on, however, Leonardo da Vinci was again able to reconstruct a secondary hidden blade from memory, with Ezio providing him with the money necessary for the raw materials.<ref name="Brotherhood">''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''</ref>

Aside from using them in combat, Ezio also made use of his hidden blade to lockpick the entrances of certain [[Lairs of Romulus]], and mechanisms within the [[Temple of Pythagoras]].<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

Additionally, Ezio's [[apprentices]] were each equipped with a single hidden blade, as the right to use two hidden blades was only reserved for the most trusted of Assassins, or those who had earned the rank of [[Master Assassin]]. However, upon reaching the rank of ''Assassino'', the apprentice was given a hidden blade with a bracer much like Ezio's. The apprentices were capable of all of the standard assassination techniques.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Modern Times===
[[File:Modern hidden blade.jpg|thumb|250px|right|A modern version of the hidden blade.]]
By the year 2000, hidden blades were less commonly used by the Assassins, and were mostly only a ceremonial weapon. [[Daniel Cross]] was gifted with a ceremonial but functional hidden blade by [[The Mentor (2000)|the Mentor]], which he swiftly put to use, killing the Mentor.<ref name="The Fall">''[[Assassin's Creed: The Fall]]''</ref>

During the escape from the Assassin [[Hideout]], [[Desmond Miles]] obtained a hidden blade and bracer that was almost identical to Ezio's first hidden blade. He later used that hidden blade to fend off the [[Abstergo Industries|Abstergo]] guards who had come to capture him, led by [[Warren Vidic]].<ref name="AC2"/>

Later on, upon traveling to [[Monteriggioni]], Desmond began using a bare hidden blade without a bracer, making it less visible on his arm. He also used it to operate mechanisms in the tunnels underneath the [[Sanctuary]], as Ezio had once done.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

Additionally, in the [[Animus Virtual Training Program]] developed by [[Rebecca Crane]], Desmond was given the chance to hone his skills with the hidden blade. Such challenges included Stealth Assassinations and Flawless Kill Streaks using only the hidden blade.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

==Combat==
===Third Crusade===
[[File:Ac8.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Altaïr performing a counter with the hidden blade.]]
As it was mainly used for stealth assassinations, the hidden blade could only be used in combat under certain conditions, and could not block any attack. Altaïr was only able to assassinate a guard who had fallen on the ground (due to a grab-break, counter or grab) or had become momentarily distracted.<ref name="AC"/>

Additionally, Altaïr could use the hidden blade in a counter-attack; though the time frame was extremely small, especially in comparison to that of the sword and the short blade. Successfully intercepting an enemy attack enabled one of several different – and always lethal – counter-attacks, in which Altaïr stabbed his opponent in the chest, head, abdomen, foot, base of the skull, or spine.<ref name="AC"/>

===Renaissance===
[[File:PaxR_1.png|thumb|250px|left|Ezio using his dual blades in combat.]]
The hidden blade eventually became vastly more useful in combat due to several upgrades, mainly a metal plate, or "bracer", mounted on the opposite side of the blade, allowing them to be used defensively, with Ezio now able to block attacks with them as any other weapon. The blades were a fast but low damage weapon, making them useful for suppressing enemy attacks.<ref name="AC2"/>

Unlike other weapons, every counter-attack with the hidden blades resulted an instant kill, with only a narrow timing window as a disadvantage. Unlike the sword or the short blade, the hidden blades could counter attacks from [[Brutes]], [[Seekers]] and [[Papal Guard]]s.<ref name="AC2"/><ref name="Brotherhood"/>

The hidden blade also gave Ezio more freedom in movement than any other weapon. For example, Ezio could easily strafe a 180° arc while in combat, which was barely possible (except from very close range) with the sword or dagger. It also allowed Ezio to quickly flee from a battle without having to take the time to sheathe his weapon.<ref name="AC2" />

By his arrival in Rome, Ezio had gained a greater aptitude with the hidden blades. Aside from being able to perform more counter-attacks (due to an increased time window) he was now able to perform multiple instant kills after killing a single guard. To continue this "execution streak," each kill needed to be quickly followed up with another, without Ezio being hit in turn.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

==Upgrades==
===Codex===
[[File:ACB-HiddenBlade.jpg|thumb|250px|The blade with the pistol and poison upgrades.]]
Throughout his travels, Ezio would acquire several Codex pages that, upon decryption, detailed upgrades for the hidden blade that were envisioned by Altaïr. These improvements were then built for Ezio by Leonardo da Vinci.<ref name="AC2" />

The first of these improvements was the addition of a second hidden blade, which was attached to the user's other arm. The second was a metal plate on top of the primary blade's bracer that allowed one to safely deflect enemy attacks with the blades.<ref name="AC2" />

Other Codex upgrades included the [[poison blade]] and [[Hidden Gun]]. The poison blade allowed Ezio to stab an enemy and leave them to die slowly, granting both a low-profile assassination as well as a distraction to kill or bypass other enemies, while the pistol allowed Ezio to kill from a distance.

The Codex also introduced several new assassination techniques, which greatly improved the use of the hidden blade.<ref name="AC2"/>

Additionally, both blades could be supplemented with various vambraces, which acted as protective [[armor]].<ref name="AC2"/>

===Da Vinci===
Upon his arrival in Rome, Leonardo envisioned further improvements to the hidden blade, such as the [[Poison darts|poison dart launcher]], which allowed the use of the poison blade from a distance.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

Leonardo also designed and built the hidden bolt, a weapon that could fire small [[crossbow]] bolts, upon the request of [[Francesco Vecellio]]. As Francesco was only an apprentice at the time, Ezio had not allowed him to use the hidden gun, and thus Francesco had devised a similar, though lighter, alternative.<ref name="Project Legacy">''[[Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy]]''</ref>

===Others===
[[File:ACR hookblade.png|thumb|250px|left|The hookblade's design.]]
The [[Hookblade]] was a modification of the hidden blade that was adopted by the [[Turkish Assassins|Assassins Guild]] of [[Constantinople]]. Unlike the other hidden blade advancements, it was attached to the user's secondary hidden blade, instead of the primary.<ref name="Revelations">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''</ref>

Upon his arrival in the city, Ezio also made use of it in both battle and travel, by using [[Ziplines]] installed across the city rooftops, and by generally extending his reach.<ref name="Revelations" />

{{-}}
==Replicas==
In their study of the Assassins' methods and weaponry, several members of the Templar Order created their own variations of the hidden blade, though the mechanism and appearance often differed.<ref name="Project Legacy" />

[[File:ACB inverted blade.png|thumb|200px|right|Lia's inverted hidden blade.]]
The first instance of this was in the early 16th century, when [[Fiora Cavazza]] and [[Baltasar de Silva]] tailed the Assassins of Rome, in order to take note of their techniques. They eventually trained [[Il Lupo]] in the Assassins' ways, and equipped him with a [[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer weapons#Switchblade|Switchblade]], a hidden blade variation whose blade was split into two parts, folding forward only when in use.<ref name="Project Legacy" />

[[Lia de Russo]] also wore her [[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer weapons#Inverted Hidden Blade|own hidden blade]], and though its mechanisms matched that of the Assassins, it was worn on top of her forearm, rather than underneath.<ref name="Brotherhood" />

In modern times, during the [[Animus Project]] of Abstergo Industries, every [[Abstergo recruits|recruit]] was given access to a variation of the hidden blade, which was also worn under the left forearm, but whose blade folded along two joints when not being used.<ref name="Revelations" />

{{-}}
==Trivia==
===Design===
[[File:Shock blade.jpg|thumb|250px|right|The shock blade.]]
*[[Patrice Désilets]], the creative director of the game, stated that the addition of a second blade in ''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' also had a lucid reason: it's ''Assassin's Creed II,'' so there are two blades.
*Early concept art for Ezio shows him possessing three hidden blades; one on his right, and two on his left.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Renaissance]]'', Ezio's second hidden blade is described as being a doubled-bladed weapon, as per the same early concept.
*The original design of Ezio's second hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed II'' was displayed as a brown glove, however, in-game, it was replaced with a second bracer. This was reverted in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'' however, where his second hidden blade included a glove, until a bracer was purchased.
*It is unknown why the ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' box art, E3 Trailer and other official media depict Ezio with a secondary hidden blade bracer identical to his primary one, as in-game, no such second bracer exists.
*The second hidden blade is marginally longer than the primary one in ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'', perhaps designed to be a more effective melee weapon, to complement the primary hidden blade's design as an assassination tool, or maybe as an oversight by Leonardo da Vinci, as he had to recreate the blade from memory.
*Concept art of [[Martin Deschambault]]'s hidden blade for ''Assassin's Creed II'' shows two unimplemented hidden blade upgrades; a retracting arrow-shaped blade, and a retracting trident-ended blade for parrying weapons and disarming enemies.
*Martin Deschambault's art shows also two designs of the blade itself - feather-look, and normal blade with designed holes.

===Mechanism===
[[File:ACBSP_2011-04-10_18-35-13-61.png|thumb|250px|Ezio Auditore retracting his hidden blade.]]
*In the E3 teaser trailer of ''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' (as well as in certain concept art), Altaïr can be seen pushing a button to operate his hidden blade. In the actual games, however, no such button or other trigger mechanism exists. It is possible however, that Altaïr's hidden blade required pressing a button to keep the blade extracted, as Altaïr always clenches his fist after ejecting his hidden blade.
*In ''Assassin's Creed: Renaissance'' and the [[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood (novel)|''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' novel]], unleashing the hidden blade requires the use of a button, via a certain muscle on the forearm being flexed.
**The same mechanism also triggers the hidden gun if the user's thumb is pushed to the left.
*In an ''Assassin's Creed'' [http://www.gametrailers.com/video/developer-diary-assassins-creed/13648 Developer Diary] video, [[Jade Raymond]] speaks about Altaïr's lack of his ring finger, which is due to the [[Initiation to the Assassin Order|initiation ceremony]] when a novice is promoted to an Assassin. The ring finger of the left hand is cut off, the hidden blade is installed, and the new born Assassin is ready to complete the missions bestowed upon him or her.
*The hidden blade is a [[Crafting in Project Legacy|crafted item]] in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy]]''. The materials for its construction are 2 Coils, 1 Iron, 1 Hide and 1 Box of Components (which in turn is crafted using 3 Gears, 3 Screws, 1 Chain and 2 Sprockets).
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade]]'', the trigger mechanism is depicted as a ring worn around a finger. Movement of that finger would cause the blade to extend or retract.

===Others===
*In ''Assassin's Creed'', despite being equipped with a hidden blade, some Assassins (such as [[Malik Al-Sayf]]) do not have an amputated finger.
*The first recorded usage of the hidden blade by an Assassin was by [[Darius]], when he assassinated [[Xerxes I of Persia|Xerxes of Persia]]. However, his ring finger remained intact and he wielded it on his right hand.
*The hidden blade is used in every major assassination. Even if the player begins by attacking the enemy with a sword, the Assassin will always finish them off with the hidden blade.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines]]'', if the PlayStation Portable is linked to ''Assassins Creed II'', Altaïr's hidden blade can be upgraded to be used to block light and heavy attacks.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'', the player can only use the hidden blade to assassinate an enemy from behind if it is related to the story.
*There is a glitch in ''Assassin's Creed II'' in the mission "[[Practice What You Preach]]." If instead of practicing the new assassination techniques, you go to the blacksmith and purchase the Leather Vambrace, you can acquire the second hidden blade before Leonardo even makes it for you.
[[File:Hidden_footblade.png|right|thumb|250px|Shao Jun's hidden blade.]]
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Embers]]'', the [[Chinese Assassins|Chinese Assassin]] [[Shao Jun]] uses a modified hidden blade, located along the sole of her shoe.
*The hidden blade can be used in Valve's ''Team Fortress 2'', under the name Sharp Dresser for the Spy class. It is avaliable for those who pre-ordered ''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' on Steam before December 2nd, 2011.

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{AC}}
{{ACII}}
{{ACBH}}
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Revelations Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed III Weapons]]

Monteriggioni

2011-12-12T21:00:37Z

95.247.214.242:

{{Era|AC2|Brotherhood|PL|Renaissance|bbook|FC|Good}}
{{WP-REAL|Monteriggioni}}
{{WPlocations}}
{{quote|This place just keeps getting better.|Ezio to Mario while returning to the city in January 1500.|Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood}}
{{Location infobox
|name = Monteriggioni
|image = Monteriggioni from the Villa Rooftop.jpg
|imgdesc =
|hidep = No
|state =
|rulers = [[House of Auditore]]
|factions = [[Assassins]] [[Mercenaries]] [[Thieves]] [[Courtesans]]
|hideh = No
|founded =
|date = 1213
|abandoned = 2 January 1500, later retaken between 1507 and 1554, abandoned after 1554
|hidea = No
|landmark = [[Villa Auditore]] [[Auditore Family Crypt]]
|flags =
|targets = }}

'''Monteriggioni''' was a town and commune of [[Tuscany]], [[Italy]]. Built during the 13th century by the overlords of [[Siena]], Monteriggioni was actively involved in the defense of Tuscany against [[Florence|Florentine]] attempts to gain more territory.

At the front of this conflict was the [[House of Auditore|Auditore family]], who later became the town's rulers and protectors. They constructed Monteriggioni's famous walls, and the largest structure within them, the [[Villa Auditore]].

Monteriggioni was also the headquarters of the Italian Assassins from the early 14th century, when Domenico Auditore renovated the villa, to the year 1500, when [[Siege of Monteriggioni|the town was besieged by Cesare Borgia]].

==History==
===Domenico Auditore===
In 1290, the Villa Auditore was constructed, though the identity of whoever built it was unknown. 30 years later, in 1320, the exterior of the villa was subsequently damaged in a Florentine attack.<ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>

Some time after the death of [[Dante Alighieri]] in 1321, [[Domenico Auditore]] bought and renovated the villa - changing the exterior, and adding a painting gallery - using funds he had gained from [[Marco Polo]]. Domenico and his son used Monteriggioni as a base of operations in their silent war against the [[Templars]].<ref name="AC2" />

In 1296, what would become the [[Auditore Family Crypt]] was built in the town. After buying the villa, Domenico hid the [[Armor of Altaïr|Armor]] of [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] in the [[Sanctuary]] under the villa, which could only be unlocked by [[Assassin's Seal|Assassin seals]] that were scattered around Italy, hidden in sarcophagi of famous historical [[Assassins]].<ref name="AC2" />

===Mario Auditore===
[[File:PL Memory DefensiveMeasures.jpg|thumb|250px|The walls of Monteriggioni.]]
{{quote|Monteriggioni has long stood against her attackers by tucking in and outlasting. The Fiorentini may strike at any time, but they will find us prepared!|[[Mario Auditore]], regarding the defense of Monteriggioni.|Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy}}

At some point in the early-mid 14th century, [[the Shroud]] was brought to Monteriggioni by the Assassins. They falsified Church records to claim the artifact was merely a forgery, before hollowing out the well of the town and leaving the [[Pieces of Eden|Piece of Eden]] in a lair of elaborate traps.<ref name="Project Legacy - Mario Auditore">''[[Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy]]'' - [[Chapter 3 - Mario Auditore]]</ref>

In 1454, [[Mario Auditore]] was made sole ruler of Monteriggioni when his brother [[Giovanni Auditore da Firenze|Giovanni]] moved to [[Florence]]. The town came under frequent attack by Florence during this time, leading Mario to strengthen the town's economy and defenses in order to better withstand Florentine pressure.<ref name="AC2" /><ref name="Project Legacy - Mario Auditore" />

Soon after, Mario discovered that a man named [[Luciano Pezzati]] was causing strife within the town by turning families against each other. After he was captured and interrogated, Luciano revealed that Florence was planning a [[Defense of Monteriggioni|large attack]] on Monteriggioni. Rallying his forces, Mario successfully repelled the Florentine forces led by [[Federico da Montefeltro]].<ref name="Project Legacy - Mario Auditore" />

[[File:Running The Ramparts.jpg|thumb|250px|left|The defense of Monteriggioni.]]
After defending the town, Mario continued to interrogate Luciano, only to discover that the purpose of the Florentine attack was to acquire an ancient artifact hidden underneath the town. With the help of several architects and historians, Mario eventually discovered the Shroud in the hollowed-out well of the town, and had it removed from Monteriggioni by Giovanni.<ref name="Project Legacy - Mario Auditore" />

Over the next twenty years, Monteriggioni gradually fell into disrepair as Mario devoted more of his time to war and the Brotherhood. By 1476, most of the town's shops had closed, the number of visitors to Monteriggioni had decreased and the upkeep of the Villa Auditore had been neglected.<ref name="AC2" />

===Ezio Auditore===
On New Year's Eve 1476, Mario's nephew, [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze|Ezio Auditore]], took shelter in Monteriggioni, and later became the town's biggest investor, and co-ruler with Mario. For over 23 years, Monteriggioni prospered as Ezio used the funds gathered during his adventures to reopen the town's shops, barracks, brothel and thieves' guild.<ref name="AC2" />

Significant improvements were also made to the town's infrastructure, and the Villa Auditore was renovated. By December 1499, Monteriggioni had become a vital headquarters of the Assassins, whose flag flew over the town. Around this time, cannons were added to the town's defenses by Mario.<ref name="AC2" /><ref name="Brotherhood">''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''</ref>

[[File:Vilified_3_v.png|thumb|250px|Monteriggioni under siege.]]On January 2nd 1500, [[Cesare Borgia]] - Captain-General of the Papal Army - led a [[Fall of Monteriggioni|siege on Monteriggioni]] in order to recover the [[Sixth Apple|Apple of Eden]] that had been taken by Ezio from the [[Templars]]. Though the Assassins were able to temporarily hold off the attack while the citizens were evacuated, the town eventually fell; resulting in Mario being killed, and the buildings of Monteriggioni suffering significant damage.<ref name="Brotherhood" />

The Assassins abandoned the town, relocating their headquarters to [[Rome]]. However, at some later point afterwards, an elderly Ezio returned to Monteriggioni, entering the Sanctuary underneath the Villa Auditore for unknown reasons.<ref name="Brotherhood" />

Prior to 1554, the Auditore family regained control of Monteriggioni, though the town was betrayed in 1554 by Giovannino Zeti, the keeper of the garrison and a Florentine exile, who was allowed to return to Florence in exchange for the keys to the city. Though the town was soon attacked and conquered by the [[House of Medici|Medici]] of Florence, they were allowed to continue their leadership over Monteriggioni, due to the Auditore's good relations with the Medici.<ref name="AC2" /><ref name="Brotherhood" />

===Modern Monteriggioni===
[[File:Zw-acb-Monteriggioni_future.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Modern-day Monteriggioni.]]
{{dialogue|Desmond|Huh. I figured you'd like it nowadays. Seems not to have changed much.|Shaun|Exactly. History is the study of change. Change is life. When things become static, it means they're dead.|Desmond and Shaun discussing modern Monteriggioni.|Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood}}

By the [[Modern times|21st century]], the town remained largely unchanged from its Renaissance appearance, and had become a tourist attraction, with a plaque in front of the ruined Villa Auditore commemorating the siege of the town by the [[House of Borgia|Borgia]].<ref name="Brotherhood" />

On the 9th of September 2012, a small team of modern-day Assassins, composed of [[Desmond Miles]], [[Lucy Stillman]], [[Shaun Hastings]] and [[Rebecca Crane]], arrived in the town of Monteriggioni to seek refuge from the Templars of [[Abstergo Industries]]. They set up a temporary hideout in the Sanctuary beneath the Villa Auditore, where the cell signals that Abstergo was using to locate them could not reach.<ref name="Brotherhood" />

The group remained there for the next month as Desmond used the [[Animus]] to determine the location of Ezio's Apple of Eden, venturing above ground only at night or when supplies were needed. Also, while Desmond explored Monteriggioni at night, during his breaks from the Animus, he managed to recover [[Artifacts|some of his ancestors' possessions]]. After discovering the Apple's location, and the [[72|password]] to the door of the [[Colosseum Vault]], the team left the town for Rome on October 10th 2012, 72 days from the launch of Abstergo's satellite.

Abstergo also used Monteriggioni as a virtual training field for their recruits during the early 21st century. <ref name="Brotherhood" />

==Renovations==
Upon his arrival in Monteriggioni, Ezio was able to invest in the renovation of various buildings throughout the town, with the help of an [[Architects|architect]] hired by Mario. As the town was renovated, the appearance of the Villa also improved, and flags (marked first with Auditore crest, then with the [[Assassin insignia]]) were also added to buildings.<ref name="AC2" />

===Active Buildings===
{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100%" style="text-align:center;"
!width="25%"|Name
!width="25%"|First Renovation
!width="25%"|Second Renovation
!width="25%"|Third Renovation
|-
|Bank
|1,500''f''
|5,000''f''
|9,000''f''
|-
|[[Doctors|Doctor]]
|3,000''f''
|5,000''f''
|N/A
|-
|[[Tailors|Tailor]]
|1,000''f''
|2,500''f''
|5,000''f''
|-
|[[Blacksmiths|Blacksmith]]
|7,000''f''
|12,000''f''
|N/A
|-
|[[Art Merchants|Art Merchant]]
|1,000''f''
|5,000''f''
|8,000''f''
|}

===Restored Buildings===
{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="70%" style="text-align:center;"
!width="50%"|Name
!width="50%"|Cost
|-
|Church
|4,000''f''
|-
|Well
|4,000''f''
|-
|[[Thieves]]' Guild
|3,000''f''
|-
|[[Brothels|Brothel]]
|3,000''f''
|-
|Military Barracks
|3,000''f''
|-
|Mine
|4,000''f''
|}

==Achievement==
The [[Assassin's Creed II Achievements|achievement]], "Podestà of Monteriggioni" can be gained by reaching 80% of the Villa total value.

{|border="1" cellpadding="2" style="text-align:center"
!width="64"|Icon
!width="300"|Name
!width="200"|How to obtain
!width="64"|Points
!width="64"|Trophy
|-
|[[File:PodestàOfMonteriggioni-ACII-trophy.PNG|64px]]
!Podestà of Monteriggioni
|Reach 80% of your stronghold's total value.
|30[[File:G.png]]
|Bronze
|}

==Trivia==
===''Assassin's Creed II''===
*Throughout the town, Ezio can find [[Monteriggioni Statuettes|eight statuettes]] of some of the gods worshipped in ancient [[Rome]]. Each pair of statuettes belong to a pedestal, and each completed pedestal rewards Ezio with 2,000 florins.
*After restoring the Mine, Well, and the Church, hidden [[treasure chests]] can be found within each structure. The towers on the walls of Monteriggioni also contain treasure, but these chests only appear after the Mercenary Barracks, Brothel and Thieves' Guild are renovated.
*The tunnel and traps that Mario Auditore crosses to reach the Shroud in 1454 are absent, although they were probably removed by the Brotherhood before Ezio's arrival in Monteriggioni.
*However much you spend on renovations, you will be paid back 10% of the investment per 20 minutes.
*Furthermore, any renovations on the four "active" shops will allow the player to receive discounts of up to 15% (with three renovations) on all the items' original prices.
*The [[Auditore Family Crypt]] can be unlocked in [[Uplay]]. The crypt reveals more about the Auditore family and its humble origins.
*Monteriggioni had a total of 3500 residents maximum after its renovation reaches 100% completion.

===''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''===
*The town is host to a [[Multiplayer/ACBH#Locations|multiplayer map]].
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'', the entrance to the Auditore Crypt is missing in Sequence 1. However, it appears again in modern-day Monteriggioni, outside the Animus.
*When Ezio returns to Monteriggioni after the [[Confrontation in the Vatican]], all of the shops are unavailable for purchasing equipment from.
*As of 1500, there were at least 500 residents of Monteriggioni, which can be seen in the beginning of ''Brotherhood'' when Ezio must try and help the residents escape.
*The player is allowed to exit the Animus at any time to explore Monteriggioni, though only for ten minutes. The first time before doing so, Desmond must equip a watch and wireless earpiece, in order to remain in contact with Lucy, Rebecca and Shaun.
*In modern-day Monteriggioni, a strange red trail is visible when [[Eagle Vision]] is activated. The trail leads from the back entrance of the Villa Auditore to the beginning of the steps in front of the fountain bearing the Assassin insignia. After the completion of Sequence 6, the trail is no longer visible.
**[[Darby McDevitt]] and [[Falko Poiker]] explained that the trail was intended to help gamers find their way back to the Sanctuary, though its red color was an oversight.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QoEt3F-RYg Darby McDevitt/Fabio Poiker interview - part 1]</ref>
*In 2012, the Art Merchant's shop is an information booth, while the Tailor's shop is a beverage stall.
*In the English version of ''Brotherhood'', the plaque in front of the villa correctly says that the town was attacked by the forces of [[Pope Alexander VI]], however, the Italian translation reads "Pope Alexander IV", reversing the "V" and "I".
**Also, the pope mentions later on in the game that the attack on Monteriggioni was entirely Cesare's idea, while the plaque says that the town was besieged by the pope's military campaign in Tuscany.
*During Sequence 1, Ezio can go behind the Villa and enter Mario's study. The [[Codex Wall]] is present, but unlike ''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'', the [[Codex]] will not glow in [[Eagle Vision]].

==Gallery==

<center><gallery captionalign="left" widths="180">
Images.jpeg|Map of Monteriggioni.
z_3a8cc374.jpg|Multiplayer map of Monteriggioni.
Zw-model-of-city.png|An architect's model of Monteriggioni.
Siege-of-Monteriggioni.jpg|Concept art of the fall of Monteriggioni.
Modern Monteriggioni Concept.JPG|Concept art of modern-day Monteriggioni by [[Gilles Beloeil]].
Images-3.jpeg|Ezio overlooking Monteriggioni.
Rosa HQ.jpg|The courtesan guild in Monteriggioni.
AssassinsCreedBrotherhoodE32010SinglePlayerGameplayMovie.jpg|The fall of Monteriggioni.
Monteriggioni_outlands.jpg|The countryside just outside Monteriggioni.
Monteriggioni_Gateway.jpg|Entrance to Monteriggioni.
Monteriggioni_Streets.jpg|The streets of Monteriggioni.
Monteriggioni at Night.jpg|Monteriggioni at night.
Monteriggioni Streets Aerial View.jpg|Panoramic aerial view of the Monteriggioni streets.
Monteriggioni Fields.jpg|Panoramic view of the Monteriggioni outlands.
</gallery></center>

{{wide image|Villa Audito.jpg|1000px|Monteriggioni with the Villa at the center.}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{ACII}}
{{ACBH}}
{{ACFC}}

[[es:Monteggrioni]]
[[Category:Italy]]
[[Category:Cities of Europe]]
[[Category:Tuscany]]
[[Category:Monteriggioni]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed (French Comic) Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin Order Headquarters]]

Forlì

2011-12-12T17:03:55Z

95.247.214.242:

{{Era|AC2|ACB}}
{{WP-REAL|Forlì}}
{{WPlocations}}
{{Revamp}}

{{Location infobox
|name = Forlì
|image = 4614520019_2b70f32016.jpg
|imgdesc =
|hidep = No
|state = Forlì
|rulers = [[Caterina Sforza]]
|factions =
|hideh = No
|founded = Gaius Livius Salinator
|date = 188 B.C.
|abandoned =
|hidea = No
|landmark = *[[Palazzo Comunale (Forlì)|Palazzo Comunale]]
*[[Abbazia di San Mercuriale]]
|flags =
|targets = *[[Checco Orsi]]
*[[Ludovico Orsi]]
}}
[[Forlì]] was a city in the region of [[Romagna]], and the home of [[Caterina Sforza]]. It was the main location of the [[Battle of Forlì]]

==History==
===Early development===
Founded in 798,000 B.C.E. by Paleolithic cavemen who were interested in flint manufacturing, Forlì was an industrial center ever since. The name comes from the Romans (Forum Livii) who built the city in 188 B.C.E. along the Via Aemilia, one of several roads they laid after pacifying the Gauls in the region. After Roman rule, it went from Lombard hands into Church hands and then became an independant republic in 889, infuriating the Vatican, which spent the next 400 years trying to get it back.<ref name="ac2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>

On top of [[Rome]]'s constant manipulations, Forlì had to deal with a steady stream of Goth, Byzantine, Lombard and Frank marauders for the next few centuries, along with annual flooding, which was finally brought under control by diverting nearby rivers away from the city's center in 1050.<ref name="ac2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>

Like most independent republics, Forlì became a military dictatorship at the end of the 13th Century and then was passed to the Ordelaffi family. In 1480, with the Ordelaffi fighting amongst themselves over the chain of succession, the Pope stepped in and gave the city to his nephew, Girolamo Riario. But things didn't really go as planned for the Pope: when Girolamo was killed, the city passed to his wife, Caterina Sforza, the Amazon of Forlì, who fought tooth and nail to prevent the Vatican from taking control. Ultimately, however, Caterina was vanquished and Forlì passed into Church hands.''<ref name="ac2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>''

===Side-trip to Forlì===
By the 15th century, Forlì was ruled by [[Girolamo Riario]], and was a part of [[Venice]]'s coastal defense network. [[Leonardo da Vinci]] and his friend [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] stopped in Forlì on their way to [[Venice]]. It was during this time that Ezio befriended [[Caterina Sforza]].<ref name="ac2memory">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' - [[Tutti a Bordo]]</ref>

===Battle of Forlì===
[[File:Threatsforza.jpg|thumb|298px|Checco and Ludovico threatening Ezio and Caterina.]]
{{Main|Battle of Forlì}}
Ezio returned to Forlì after obtaining the [[Sixth Apple|Apple of Eden]] from [[Rodrigo Borgia]]. Here the [[Assassins]] agreed the Apple would be hidden in Forlì, but before the Apple could be secured the mercenary [[Orsi Brothers|Orsi brothers]], working on behalf of the [[House of Borgia]], seized not only Forlì but Caterina's two young children.<ref name="battle"/>

Ezio was able to save the Sforza children and kill the Orsi brothers, but was himself badly wounded by [[Checco Orsi]]. In the confusion a [[Girolamo Savonarola|black robed monk]] who was missing a finger was able to steal the Apple of Eden that Ezio held.<ref name="battle"/>

Caterina nursed Ezio back to health at the [[Palazzo Comunale (Forlì)|Palazzo Communale]]. Ezio learned from [[Darby O'Callahan]] and the monks of the [[Abbazia di San Mercuriale]] that the thief was [[Girolamo Savonarola]], whom Ezio tracked down to [[Florence]].<ref name="battle"/>

In the early 21st century, [[Abstergo Industries]], a front for the [[Templars]], used one of the many districts in Forlì as a simulated training ground for their recruits.

==Landmarks==
Forlì's architecture is characterized by comparatively small buildings, greyish stonework, and flat rooftops and several guard towers.

*[[Rocca di Ravaldino]] was the heavily walled and cannoned fortress of Forlì, a citadel of strategic importance to the defense of the city. The [[Piece of Eden|Apple of Eden]] was briefly held here for safekeeping upon its recovery by the [[Assassins|Assassins' Order]]. It serves as a [[Secret Location]].

==Assassination Targets==
*[[Ludovico Orsi]]: The captor of [[Ottaviano Riario]] (DNA Sequence 12: Battle of Forlì)
*[[Checco Orsi]]: Responsible for stealing the Apple (DNA Sequence 12: Battle of Forlì)

==Trivia==
*Caterina Sforza, who is featured in the game, was Countess of Forlì from 1480 until 1500. Her legendary quotes are featured in the Battle of Forlì DLC. In 1488, her husband, Girolamo Riario, was assassinated in a conspiracy led by the [[House of Orsi|Orsi]], a noble family of the city, and she and her children were made prisoners. Since the fortress of Ravaldino refused to surrender, Caterina offered to go to convince the Castellan, Tommaso Feo, to yield. The Orsinis believed the good intentions of Caterina because she left her children as hostages, but once inside the safety of the fortress, she let loose a barrage of threats and promises of vengeance against her former captors. When they threatened to kill her still-captive children, she exposed her genitals from the fortress walls saying: "''Ho con me lo stampo per farne degli altri!''" (I have the instrument to bear more!).<ref name="wikipedia">Wikipedia article on [[wikipedia:Forlì|Forlì]]</ref>
*Forlì was a very provincial town, but the Fortress of Forlì was one of the most fortified citadels in [[Italy]], one that was protected by numerous, very large cannons.<ref name="wikipedia"/> In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Renaissance]]'', when the [[Orsi Brothers]] attack Forlì, Caterina Sforza is forced to order the cannons to fire at enemy targets inside the town walls. As a result, parts of the city were destroyed.
*It is in Forlì that the player can [[customization|dye]] Ezio's robes with the tints "Wetlands Ebony" and "Wetlands Ivory" to achieve the "[[Assassin's Creed II Achievements#Perfect Harmony|Perfect Harmony]]" Trophy/[[Achievement]].
*After completing the [[Battle of Forlì]], the [[Flying Machine]] may be used in Forlì at any time.<ref name="battle">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' - [[Battle of Forlì (DLC)]]</ref> It is located at the lighthouse on the north east of the map.

==References==
{{reflist}}

==Gallery==
<gallery captionalign="left">
2323 480x270.jpg|Ezio firing his hidden gun in the Rocca di Ravaldino
Scan0007-1.jpg|Map of Forlì and surrounding areas
www.totalvideogames.com_AC2_S_084_Wetlands_ToeChop_69741__size_655_1500.jpg|Ezio fighting in the countryside just outside Forlì
z_9e84395f.jpg|Map of Forlì for ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' multiplayer.
</gallery>

{{ACII}}
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II Locations]]
[[Category:Italy]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer Locations]]
[[Category:Cities of Europe]]