Filippo, the restorer of ancient architecture in Italy, was the son of a notary of Florence, where he was born in 1377. He early adopted architecture as a profession, and went to Rome with Donatello to pursue his studies. The splendid edifices with which he adorned his native town gained him much fame throughout Italy; and the pope for the time being, Eugene IV., sent for him to the court to draw up designs and assist him with his advice on professional matters. He was the original architect of the Pitti Palace, and of the still more magnificent palaces of the Strozzi and Riccardi on the opposite bank of the Arno. He died in 1444.