Blessed Villana de’ Botti was a 14th-century Dominican tertiary from Florence, known for her deep conversion, life of penance, and mystical union with God. Her story is one of grace triumphing over vanity, as she renounced a worldly life to embrace the path of holiness.
Early Life and Worldly Pursuits
Born in Florence in 1332 into the noble de’ Botti family, Villana was raised in an environment of wealth and privilege. Despite her parents’ piety, she was initially drawn to the allure of worldly pleasures. As a young woman, she took delight in luxurious clothing, social gatherings, and the admiration of her peers.
However, a moment of divine grace transformed her life. One day, while gazing into a mirror, she saw not her own beauty but a frightening vision of her soul, darkened by sin. This mystical experience filled her with terror and deep sorrow, leading her to a radical change of heart.
Conversion and Penance
Determined to abandon her previous way of life, Villana sought refuge in the Dominican Order as a tertiary (a laywoman affiliated with the order). She adopted a life of prayer, penance, and charitable works. Her husband, to whom she had been given in marriage by her parents, at first resisted her new way of life but eventually came to respect her holiness.
Villana devoted herself to works of mercy, caring for the poor, visiting the sick, and instructing others in the faith. She practiced severe mortifications and spent long hours in prayer, contemplating the mysteries of Christ’s passion.
Mystical Experiences and Death
As she grew in holiness, Villana was granted profound mystical experiences. She was known to fall into ecstasies during prayer, and many who knew her testified to her extraordinary spiritual gifts. Despite suffering from various illnesses, she remained steadfast in her devotion to God.
At the age of 29, Villana passed away in 1361. Her reputation for sanctity spread quickly, and she was venerated by the people of Florence as a model of repentance and divine love.
Veneration and Beatification
Blessed Villana de’ Botti was beatified by Pope Leo XII in 1824, recognizing the enduring witness of her life. Her feast day is celebrated on February 29 (or February 28 in non-leap years). She remains an inspiration for those struggling with attachment to worldly things, showing that God’s grace can lead even the most distracted soul to holiness.
Legacy
Blessed Villana’s life is a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures and the eternal joy found in Christ. She is particularly venerated by those seeking conversion and deeper penitence.