Mastino I della Scala

Mastino I della Scala, born Leonardino, was the son of Jacopino della Scala and founder of Scaliger rule in Verona. A Ghibelline, he became podestà of Verona in 1259 and capitano del popolo from 1262, controlling the commune through its offices without a lordly title.

In 1264 his troops took Lonigo and Montebello and he won Veronese trading rights on the Adige from Venice. He also made peace with Mantua.

Backing Conradin in 1267 earned him excommunication, lifted after Cathars were burned in the Arena. He was assassinated in Verona in October 1277 and succeeded by his brother Alberto I.