In the autumn of 1526, Emperor Charles V dispatches his German landsknechts under the command of Georg von Frundsberg to march on Rome. The weaker papal forces led by Giovanni de'Medici attempt to pursue them during a severe winter. Despite this, the Imperial soldiers cross the rivers along their march and obtain artillery due to the Lords' dexterity. Giovanni de'Medici is shot in the leg by a falconet during a fight. His attempts to be cured fail, and he passes away. The troops of the Empire assault Rome. The film depicts the harsh conditions under which war is waged and the lack of glory associated with it. After the death of Giovanni de'Medici, the commanders of the European armies declare that they would no longer employ fire weapons due to their brutality.