Leonardo da Vinci The genius Leonardo da Vinci, a famous painter, scientist, and architect, was born in Italy in 1452. Father Ciori recognized his genius for painting and sent Leonardo to his paternal grandfather Antonio,who was the lord of Vinci Castle. So his father Piero took Leonardo to Florence to have him learn painting with Verrocchio, a famous painter. Verrocchio marveled at Leonardo's ability. One day Verrocchio said Leonardo, "Will you please complete the Baptism of Christ instead of