The church of Santa Margarita dei Cerchi: The story of Dante and Beatrice!

It is said that in this medieval church the poet Dante got married and met the love of his life. This little church may not be as majestic as other architectural gems in Florence, but its lack of size and splendor makes up for its history. According to some reports, it was within its walls that the famous poet Dante met his wife and the love of his life. For this reason the church received the unofficial name of "Dante's Church".

The Church of Santa Margarita de Cerci had been built in the Middle Ages and is located in a small alley near the house where Dante Alighieri presumably lived. Since childhood, Dante's family has attended mass in Santa Margarita de Cerci, as have many other wealthy families in Italy. According to legend, by the will of fate, their loyalty paid off. Some believe it was in this church that nine-year-old Dante met Beatrice Portinari.

Eight years old, his muse and the woman who inspired him to write The Divine Comedy. The boy fell in love at first sight. But just three years after falling in love with Beatrice, at the age of 12, Dante was betrothed to Gemma Di Manetto Donati, daughter of another wealthy and influential family in the city. Around 1285, at the age of 20, he married her, as some believe, she was within the walls of this church. Many members of the Donati and Portina families are buried within the walls of the old church. 

Beatrice's tomb is also located within its walls and tourists can honor her memory. Legend has it that in order for Beatrice to improve your personal life, you must leave her a letter in the trash. I hope this article has been to your liking and that it has enriched your cultural background. Thanks for reading