The Terzi, originally from the Valle Cavallina and loyal Ghibellines, supported the Holy Roman Empire until its dissolution. The emperors had a keen interest in establishing a powerful family in this area in order to secure passage under any circumstances. It was here that the family’s first estates were located (with the castles of Terzo, Berzo, Grone and Monasterolo). It would also seem that, even before the year one thousand, the Terzi family also lived in Bergamo, where they swiftly joined the ranks of rulers of the municipality.
Ottobono Terzi was one of the most illustrious personalities of the family. In the second half of the 14th century, he was Captain of Gian Galeazzo Visconti and held the Seignory of Parma, Piacenza and Reggio. Some family members followed ecclesiastical careers instead. Alberto and Adelongo were canons. In 1217, Alberto was elected Bishop of Bergamo in 1242, whilst Giroldo Terzi became archpriest of Clusone, in 1272.
In addition, between 1562 and 1563, Giovanni Terzi, lecturer in theology at the University of Pavia, attended the Council of Trent.