In the early 16th century, Italy is ruled by the powerful Borgia family, led by César Borgia and his sister Lucrèce. In a ruthless power play, César plots to have his sister’s husband murdered. But without her brother’s knowledge, Lucrèce has taken a strong lover who will challenge the Borgias.

French silent film pioneer Abel Gance directs this 1935 classic about Lucrezia Borgia, her brother, Cesare. and her father, Pope Alexander VI -- one of history's most ruthless and ambitious crime families.

Federico, a virtuous nobleman from an impoverished family, is brought into service by autocrat Cesare Borgia. His promiscuous sister Lucrezia seems to have an amorous interest in Federico and wants him as her lover though Federico is in love with Diana, the Duke of Alva's daughter, whom he has saved from being raped. When he learns about Diana's feud against the Borgia clan, he becomes aware of their infamous deeds.

Fabrizio finds refuge from thugs in a convent, and passion in the arms of Lucrezia Borgia.