The show's protagonist, Elisa di Rivombrosa, played by actress Valeria Golino, is a strong-willed and determined young woman who defies the conventions of her aristocratic upbringing. Born into a wealthy family, Elisa is expected to marry well and lead a life of luxury, but she has other plans. She becomes involved in the resistance movement against the Austrian Empire, which rules Lombardy at the time, and falls in love with a dashing young nobleman, Count Fabrizio. As Elisa navigates the complexities of her relationships and her involvement in the resistance, she must confront the harsh realities of her world and make difficult choices that will shape her future.