Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Located approximately 60 kilometers north of the Republic of San Marino, Ravenna is the capital of the province of Ravenna (Italian: Provincia di Ravenna) in Italy's rich Emilia-Romagna region. Its historical significance is unparalleled; it served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century and later became the heart of Byzantine Italy until the 8th century. This extraordinary past has left Ravenna with a unique and magnificent legacy: an unparalleled collection of early Christian mosaics and buildings that have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Stepping into Ravenna is like traveling back in time to an era of imperial grandeur and artistic brilliance. Its eight UNESCO monuments, a stunning testament to the city's golden age, showcase a fusion of Roman, Gothic, and Byzantine art. The sheer scale and beauty of the glittering mosaics are a feast for the eyes and a profound spiritual experience, making Ravenna an essential destination for any history or art lover.
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe
Our tour of Ravenna's incredible mosaic heritage begins with a visit to the magnificent Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe (A; GPS: 44.380235, 12.232761), which is situated in the ancient port city of Classe, about 8 km south of Ravenna's modern center. A convenient parking lot (1; GPS: 44.378487, 12.234907) is available right next to the basilica, making access easy. The basilica's exterior is striking in its simplicity, with outer walls constructed from narrow, red bricks held together by lime mortar, and a three-part window above the main entrance. Its majestic cylindrical bell tower, a later addition from the 10th century, stands as a testament to the building's long history.
The true marvel lies within. The interior of the basilica is divided into three naves by two majestic rows of twelve columns, each carved from radiant Greek marble. The most breathtaking feature is undoubtedly the mosaic in the apse, which depicts a lush, flowered landscape where St. Apollinaris is presented with a flock of sheep, set against a stunning green and gold backdrop. This vibrant mosaic is a masterpiece of early Byzantine art, with intricate details and vivid colors that have shimmered for over 1,500 years.
The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe was built in the 6th century on the site of a cemetery where St. Apollinaris, the first bishop of Ravenna, was martyred. The basilica’s incredible mosaics, while appearing simple at first glance, tell a complex symbolic story and are considered one of the most important surviving examples of Byzantine art. Just outside the building, you can see a statue of Emperor Augustus, a nod to the ancient port of Classe he founded, highlighting the deep historical layers of this site.
Piazza del Popolo
The vibrant heart of modern Ravenna is the stunning Piazza del Popolo (B; GPS: 44.417720, 12.199749), a spacious square surrounded by beautiful historical palaces and arcades. It is a lively hub where locals and tourists gather, and it frequently hosts a variety of events, markets, and festivals that fill the city with energy. From here, you can easily explore the historic center on foot.
For visitors arriving by car, there are two convenient paid parking lots located nearby, making it easy to access the city center. The parking lot at Piazza John Fitzgerald Kennedy (2; GPS: 44.416774, 12.197367) offers 130 spaces, and the one at Largo Firenze Street (3; GPS: 44.416176, 12.201739) has 111 spaces. Both are available at a rate of 0.5€ per 15 minutes, providing a practical solution for a short or long visit to the city's main attractions.
Baptistery of Neon
A short walk from Piazza del Popolo, along the small Via Battistero street, you will find the magnificent Baptistery of Neon (C; GPS: 44.415624, 12.197356). Constructed at the beginning of the 5th century, this octagonal structure is a simple brick building on the outside, but its interior is a dazzling world of color and light. Its most stunning feature is the intricate mosaic that adorns the dome, which was added in the mid-5th century under the patronage of Bishop Neon.
The dome's mosaic depicts the Baptism of Christ, with a detailed and vibrant procession of the twelve apostles moving around the central scene. The mosaic's brilliant blues and golds create a profound and ethereal atmosphere. As one of the oldest surviving monuments in Ravenna, the Baptistery of Neon is a crucial piece of the city's UNESCO collection, showcasing the transition from classical Roman art to early Christian art.
Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
As we delve deeper into the city's ancient core, you can choose to continue your exploration on foot or move your car to a larger, more accessible parking lot. A substantial parking area is located at Largo Giustiniani street (4; GPS: 44.421881, 12.196144), offering 360 places at a daily rate of 2.5€. This area is a key hub for some of Ravenna's most stunning sites. On the nearby Galla Placida street, you will find the church of Santa Maria Maggiore (D; GPS: 44.421165, 12.197372), a 6th-century building that was rebuilt in the 17th century, and the world-famous Basilica of San Vitale (E; GPS: 44.420624, 12.196133).
Dating from the 6th century, the Basilica of San Vitale is considered one of the most important examples of early Byzantine Christian art and architecture in Western Europe. Its interior is built on a complex octagonal plan, beautifully blending Romanesque and Byzantine elements. The basilica is most celebrated for its mesmerizing mosaics. On the side walls, intricate mosaics depict scenes from the Old Testament. The most renowned mosaics, however, are found in the apse, where breathtaking portraits of Emperor Justinian I and his wife Theodora are presented in stunning detail. These mosaics are not just art; they are crucial historical documents, capturing the imperial power and splendor of the Byzantine court in the 6th century.
The Basilica's interior is a true marvel, with radiant mosaics covering almost every surface, including 15 intricate panels depicting Jesus, the apostles, and Saint Gervais. The way the light catches the gold tesserae is an unforgettable sight, creating a truly spiritual and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Right next to the basilica, you will find the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a small chapel built in the mid-5th century. Stepping inside reveals a dazzling ceiling mosaic of a deep blue sky adorned with golden stars, creating a profound sense of peace and wonder that must be seen to be believed.
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Continuing your journey through Ravenna's mosaic treasures, you will find another stunning early Christian building on Via di Roma: the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo (GPS: 44.416808, 12.205073). Constructed in the early 6th century by the Arian King Theodoric the Great, it was originally dedicated to St. Martin of Tours. The basilica received its current name in the 9th century after the relics of St. Apollinaris were transferred here from the older Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, hence its name, which translates to "The New Basilica of St. Apollinaris."
The interior is justly famous for its spectacular mosaics, which line the nave and tell a magnificent story. On one side, a procession of 22 virgins, led by the Three Wise Men, marches from the city of Classe towards the enthroned Madonna and Child. On the opposite wall, a procession of 26 martyrs moves from Theodoric's palace towards Christ. These vivid, cinematic mosaics are a visual marvel, showcasing the stylistic changes in mosaic art over time and representing the grandeur of the city during the Ostrogothic kingdom and the Byzantine era.
Gastronomy in Ravenna
Ravenna's location in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region means that a visit is not complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. This region is often called the "food valley of Italy," and its culinary tradition is defined by rich flavors, fresh pasta, and high-quality local products.
What to Try?
- Piadina: A quintessential street food of the region, `piadina` is a thin, unleavened flatbread often filled with a variety of ingredients, such as local cheeses (like `squacquerone`), cured meats (`prosciutto`), or vegetables.
- Fresh Pasta: Emilia-Romagna is the home of fresh, egg-based pasta. Be sure to try `tagliatelle` with a classic `ragù` (meat sauce), or try the local filled pasta like `cappelletti` or `tortelli`, often served in a delicious broth or with a simple butter and sage sauce.
- Cured Meats: Indulge in the region's famous cured meats, including `prosciutto di Parma` and `mortadella`, often served on a platter as an appetizer.
- Local Wines: Pair your meal with local wines like `Sangiovese` (red) or `Trebbiano` (white), which perfectly complement the rich flavors of the food.
Where to Eat?
- Trattorias and `Osterias`: Look for a traditional `trattoria` or `osteria` in the city center for an authentic, homemade meal.
- `Piadinerias`: Grab a quick and delicious `piadina` from one of the many small eateries specializing in this flatbread.
- Restaurants near Piazza del Popolo: The streets around the main square offer a wide range of dining options, from casual to upscale.
See also: