Dante Alighieri was one of Italy's greatest poets, known throughout much of the world, especially for his masterpiece, the Divine Comedy. His tomb is located right here in Ravenna.
It is important to note that for political reasons the poet had to flee into exile from Florence as early as 1302. After living in several cities, he chose to spend the last years of his life here in Ravenna.
When he died suddenly of malaria in September 1321, solemn funerals were held in his honor in the nearby Basilica of St. Francis, at the time it was the Church of St. Peter Major.
From that moment on, a dispute began between Florence and Ravenna to obtain custody of the remains, which never left these places, although they were moved and hidden several times.
Finally, around 1780, at the behest of Cardinal Gonzaga, whose coat of arms you will see on the facade of the tomb, the present temple was built in the neoclassical style.
You should note, however, that the poet's remains were not found and laid in the sarcophagus inside the small building until 1865. In fact, as a result of moving and hiding them, their trail had been lost.
Near the tomb you will find the Quadrarco di Braccioforte, a garden where two interesting sarcophagi dating back to the 5th century are kept. Also nearby are the fascinating Franciscan cloisters, where you can visit the curious Dante Museum.
But a real gem, which you cannot miss, is the crypt of the nearby Basilica of St. Francis. It is located just below the altar, down some stairs. Looking out the small window you can see this special environment, perpetually flooded by water, where small fish swim around. At the bottom you can catch a glimpse of part of the mosaic floor of the ancient 5th-century church. The atmosphere is truly magical.
Let me leave you with an interesting fact: You should note that Florence and Ravenna stopped fighting over Dante's remains long ago. In fact, every year in September, on the anniversary of his death, the Tuscan city donates olive oil to Ravenna which is used to fuel the perennial votive lamp hanging from the ceiling of the tomb which burns constantly.
