The Church of Dante and Beatrice

History and passion meet in the Church of Dante and Beatrice

Walking down the streets of Florence, from Via dei Calzaiuoli to the home of Dante Alighieri, we come across a veritable immortal monument for all lovers: the Church of Dante and Beatrice. Really, the real name of the holy place is that of “Chiesa di Santa Margherita de’ Cerchi”, a small chapel which, over the years, has been witness to an only desired love. The structure was built during the eleventh century, even if subsequently it underwent several transformations. The Church of Dante and Beatrice refers to the Cerchi’s family, that from 1353 held the patronage.

HISTORY AND PASSION MEET IN THE CHURCH OF DANTE AND BEATRICE IN FLORENCE

What makes the Church of Dante and Beatrice a truly unique place is the history it holds. Right here or along the road leading to the structure, in fact, Dante and Beatrice had the opportunity to meet, even to exchange only a quick glance.
Dante lived just twenty meters from the church; in fact, at the end of the avenue is currently Dante’s House Museum.
At that time, Beatrice went to the church many times also because members of her family were buried there. Most likely, therefore, they met in what is now called the Church of Dante and Beatrice, the spectator of a sublimated love, desired, wished for, but never realized.
And to this day, on Beatrice’s tomb (about which, moreover, several doubts hover) we find numerous prayer cards from young lovers asking not to lose or win back their lost love.

ARCHITECTURE OF THE CHURCH OF DANTE AND BEATRICE

The walls of the Church of Santa Margherita dei Cerchi is formed of square stone blocks. In the center of the church is a large portal with a round arch, covered by a double-pitched roof above which are two curved windows.
At the back we find a single nave ending in a square apse, covered by a slightly curved vault decorated with frescoes. Behind the altar is a painting by Neri di Bicci entitled “Madonna Enthroned with Saints Lucy, Margaret, Agnes and Catherine of Alexandria” from the 15th century.

Church of Dante and Beatrice opening time

The Church of Dante and Beatrice, being a Catholic place of worship, is open only during certain hours; therefore, the Church can be visited, free of charge, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

THE CHURCH OF DANTE AND BEATRICE IN THE HISTORIC CENTER OF FLORENCE

The Church of Dante and Beatrice is just 100 meters from the hotel Brunelleschi, the perfect point of reference in Florence for a relaxing and fun holiday. The structure is particularly attractive, thanks to its particular location. In fact, the hotel is located in the Tower of Pagliazza, the oldest still standing in town which houses inside it an interesting museum with numerous artifacts discovered during restoration works. Although highly respectful of the original building, the hotel is a symbol of luxury and comfort, thanks to the atmosphere enveloping the strong professional staff, with the many services, outstanding cuisine and absolutely breathtaking views of famous landmarks. The perfect choice when visiting the Church of Dante and Beatrice.

A place of immortal love: the Church of Dante and Beatrice