Leonardo da Vinci: DNA Research Reveals Six Living Descendants of the Renaissance Genius

In an ambitious international collaboration known as the ‘Leonardo DNA Project,’ scientists aimed to reconstruct the genetic profile of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the greatest figures of the Renaissance. Since its launch in 2016 under the coordination of New York’s Rockefeller University, the project has made significant strides. In their book titled ‘Genìa Da Vinci. Genealogy and Genetics for Leonardo’s DNA,’ published with support from the municipality of Vinci in Tuscany, researchers present findings from 30 years of genealogical research. They reconstructed Da Vinci’s family tree dating back to 1331, spanning 21 generations. Over 400 individuals were analyzed, including 219 Da Vinci/Vinci descendants (119 men and 100 women). Through meticulous archival analysis, researchers identified 15 direct male descendants related to both Leonardo’s father and his half-brother, Domenico Benedetto. Led by David Caramelli of Florence University and forensic anthropologist Elena Pilli, six of these descendants underwent DNA testing. The results revealed matching segments of the Y chromosome, confirming the genetic continuity of the Da Vinci male lineage since at least the 15th generation. The discovery could pave the way for further examination of biological material attributed to Leonardo, potentially leading to the reconstruction of his DNA. This genetic profile might reveal insights into his visual perception, diet, health predispositions, and physical appearance. Additionally, the study suggests that a charcoal sketch found in an old building in Vinci, depicting a fantastical unicorn-dragon hybrid, may be attributed to Leonardo himself.