The Dante Society of Virginia
History
Founded in 1998, the Dante Society of Virginia began with a core group of Lynchburg residents passionate about Italy and its rich cultural heritage. The initial vision of a sister city program with Vicenza, Italy, grew into a vibrant organization that now hosts a full calendar of cultural events throughout the year.
Over the decades, the Society has partnered with local cultural institutions including Opera on the James, the Maier Museum of Art, Alliance Française, and other area organizations to bring Italian arts, music, literature, and cuisine to Central Virginia. Our membership has grown from a small founding group to dozens of households united by a shared love of all things Italian.
The Society is a 501(c)(7) organization funded entirely by membership dues and donations.
Our Mission
- Promote an appreciation of Italian achievements in the arts, literature, science and industry.
- Promote a spirit of understanding among people through the arts and other cultural activities.
Our Activities
Dante events and activities include lectures on Italian-related topics, programs in cooperation with Opera on the James, the Maier Museum, Alliance française, and other area organizations, a film/dinner series, as well as travel opportunities.
About Dante Society
The Dante Society of Virginia is a non-profit organization named after Dante Alighieri (1265–1321), the Italian Florentine poet and author of The Divine Comedy, who is considered the father of the Italian language. His work continues to inspire generations across the globe, and our society carries forward his legacy by fostering Italian culture in the Commonwealth of Virginia.