Inscription above the Gates of Hell


Through me the way into the suffering city,
through me the way to the eternal pain,
through me the way that runs among the lost.

Justice urged on my high artificer;
my maker was divine authority,
the highest wisdom, and the primal love.

Before me nothing but eternal things
were made, and I endure eternally.
Abandon every hope, who enter here.


- The Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri -