The recognition of the remains of Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch), (1304-1374).

Abstract

Francesco Petrarca, (Petrarch), the poet who sang of his love for Laura, died in Arquà, today Arquà Petrarca, in 1374, and according to sources, was buried in the parish church. In 1380 his remains were transferred into a monumental marble tomb in front of the church by his son-in-law, Francescuolo di Brossano. Throughout the centuries the tomb was reopened on several occasions and for various reasons: to steal some of the famous poet's bones, for safety reasons, and lastly, to carry out scientific research. In this article, we intend to discuss the various openings, focusing in particular on the findings of the most recent recognition in 2003. This investigation confirmed that the skeleton is indeed Petrarca's, with the notable exception of the skull fragments, which turn out to be attributable to a member of the female sex. Using primary sources, including several unpublished documents, we offer some thoughts on when and under what circumstances this substitution might have taken place.