The series was conceived by David S. Goyer, who also directed the first two episodes and wrote several others.

The show was developed as the first collaboration between Starz and BBC Worldwide following a new production agreement, and was distributed to over 120 countries.

Tom Riley was the first actor cast in the series, landing the role of Leonardo da Vinci because producers felt he could portray the character with many dimensions appealing to a worldwide audience.

Laura Haddock was cast in the female lead role as Lucrezia Donati.

Filming took place in Wales, at locations including Swansea, Neath, Port Talbot and Margam Castle, using a 265,000-square-foot studio in Swansea Gate Business Park where sets were built to resemble 15th-century Florence.

Goyer had a scene in episode five depicting a kiss between Leonardo and Jacopo Saltarelli filmed in secret because he feared network interference.

Composer Bear McCreary orchestrated the main theme to reflect Leonardo's use of mirror writing.

For season two, Goyer set part of the story in South America featuring Machu Picchu and the Inca Empire, justifying it by citing 'new research' suggesting Chinese and European explorers may have reached the New World earlier than believed.

Given the widespread belief that Leonardo was primarily attracted to men, Goyer and Riley both stated the show would not shy away from depicting his sexuality, aiming to honor that historical speculation.

Season 1 holds a 75% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 62, indicating generally favorable reviews despite criticism of its historical accuracy.

The series received three nominations at the 65th Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, winning for Outstanding Main Title Design and Outstanding Main Title Theme Music, but losing Outstanding Special Visual Effects to Banshee.