Vi è il sepolcro di Dante, or “there is the tomb of Dante,” refers to the final resting place of one of Italy’s most celebrated writers. Dante Alighieri was a poet, philosopher, and politician who lived in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. His epic poem, the Divine Comedy, is widely considered one of the greatest works of world literature. Dante died in 1321 in Ravenna, a city located in the northeastern part of Italy, and it was in this same city that his tomb was built.
The design of the tomb was commissioned by Bernardo Bembo, who was the ambassador of Venice to Ravenna. He wanted to honor Dante’s life and legacy, and so he enlisted the help of sculptor Pietro Lombardo to create a fitting memorial. The tomb was completed in 1483, over 100 years after Dante’s death, and serves as a reminder of his enduring influence on Italian culture and literature.
The tomb is located inside the Basilica di San Francesco, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is made of white marble and features a life-size statue of Dante in a seated position. The statue is carved in intricate detail, with every fold of Dante’s robe and every strand of his hair carefully rendered. Behind the statue is a niche with an inscription in Latin that reads, “Dante Alighieri, a Tuscan poet, who tried to harmonize things discordant through his song.” Above the niche is a relief of the Madonna and Child, which serves as a reminder of Dante’s deep religious faith.
Visitors to the tomb can also see a series of frescoes that were created by the painter Luca Signorelli in the 15th century. These paintings depict scenes from the Divine Comedy, including the inferno, purgatory, and paradise. They are a fitting tribute to Dante’s most famous work and help to bring his words to life for those who visit his final resting place.
Vi è il sepolcro di Dante is not just a historic site, but a symbol of Italy’s literary legacy. Dante’s impact on Italian literature cannot be understated; he is considered the father of the Italian language and his works have influenced countless writers and thinkers throughout the centuries. His tomb is a reminder of the power of words and the lasting impact they can have on the world. For anyone visiting Italy, a trip to the tomb of Dante is a must-see, as it offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of the greatest writers of all time.
Vi è il sepolcro di Dante