The Renaissance lasted from the 1300s to the late 1600s, and what a time it was to be alive. Even if you don't love Renaissance Faires (and come on, who doesn't?), you should definitely love the Renaissance itself. Where else can you find such an amazing blend of art, philosophy, and science? Things that happened during the Renaissance directly shaped the way we live today, paving the path that led from the Dark Ages to the modern world. Famous inventors, artists, and thinkers made sure the Renaissance influences today more than you'll ever know (at least until you read this article).