Museo Dante, Ravenna

Historic Building and Museum in Ravenna

CC BY-SA 3.0 / frankpul

The Museo Dante, located not far from Dante Alighieri’s tomb, is a museum dedicated to the life, works, and memory of Dante Alighieri, the renowned Italian poet considered the father of the Italian language.

The museum’s history dates back to 1921 when it was originally established to commemorate the 600th anniversary of Dante’s death. Over the years, it underwent various changes and expansions, ultimately leading to its transformation into the new Museo Dante.

The Museo Dante comprises several rooms that offer visitors an emotional journey through Dante’s life, literary works, and legacy. It delves into Dante’s human adventure and artistic contributions, with a particular focus on his masterpiece, the Divine Comedy. The museum also showcases a collection of relics and objects associated with Dante.

Room 1 introduces visitors to Dante’s life and work through a timeline that incorporates biographical and historical events, readings, and encounters.

Room 2 explores the iconic imagery of Dante created by artists like Boccaccio, featuring various depictions of the poet’s face.

Room 3, restored in 1989, displays a wreath donated by Italian emigrant associations in Montevideo and the Uruguayan Dante Alighieri Society during the 600th anniversary of Dante’s death.

Room 4 houses a wide collection of relics, including the wooden box that preserved Dante’s remains from 1677 until their rediscovery in 1865, as well as a wooden chest created for the 600th anniversary of Dante’s birth.

Room 6 is a multimedia space that explores Dante’s enduring popularity and the continued success of his works.

Rooms 7, 8, and 9 take visitors on a journey through the three parts (cantiche) of the Divine Comedy, allowing them to listen to Dante’s verses and immerse themselves in the vivid imagery they evoke.

The Museo Dante, Ravenna appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ravenna!

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