Colonna

(ko-lon'nah.) [It., a column.] The patronymic of an illustrious Italian race, which, since the 12th century, has played a distinguished part in European history. They were adherents of the Ghibelline party, and rivals of the Orsini. The most important member of it was PROSPERO C., who served under Charles VIII. of France in the conquest of Naples, and under Gonsalvo de Cordova. In 1513, he defeated the Venetians near Vicenza, and in 1521 and following years, on several occasions won battles over the French. D. 1525. [s. 206]