Seraphina Sforza was a 15th-century Italian nun and noblewoman born into the House of Montefeltro. Originally known as Sveva, she was married to Alessandro Sforza, the lord of Pesaro, following an arranged union. After facing severe domestic abuse and false accusations from her husband, she was forced to enter a Poor Clare convent, where she adopted the name Seraphina. She eventually rose to the position of abbess, serving the order until her death in 1478.
Life and devotion
Born in Urbino, Sveva was the daughter of Guido Antonio of Montefeltro. Her marriage to Alessandro Sforza involved significant hardship, including physical violence and accusations of conspiracy. Despite these trials, she remained devoted to her faith. After entering the Poor Clares under duress, she lived a life of prayer and eventually led her community as abbess. Her husband later sought her forgiveness before his death in 1473.
Veneration and legacy
The Catholic Church beatified Seraphina in 1754 through Pope Benedict XIV. She is remembered as a model of holiness within an abusive marriage and as a dedicated stepmother. Following her death, her body was found to be incorrupt, and she has been venerated for her perceived miracles. Franciscans observe her feast day on September 9, and her remains are kept in Pesaro Cathedral.