Italy

Ravenna

Ravenna is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure trove of stunning Byzantine mosaics, ancient basilicas, and historic monuments from the late Roman Empire.

Region: Emilia-Romagna
Country: Italy

What to see

Basilica of San Vitale

Famous for its breathtaking 6th-century Byzantine mosaics depicting imperial and religious figures in shimmering gold.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

A small but intensely beautiful structure housing the oldest mosaics in Ravenna, featuring a stunning starry night sky ceiling.

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo

A grand basilica adorned with rows of mosaic figures representing saints and martyrs, showcasing early Christian art.

Experiences

Ravenna is a hidden gem of the Italian Adriatic coast, renowned worldwide for its unparalleled collection of early Christian and Byzantine mosaics. In the 5th and 6th centuries, Ravenna served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire, leaving behind eight UNESCO-listed monuments that boast some of the most dazzling golden mosaics in existence. The Basilica of San Vitale, with its ethereal depictions of Christ and angels, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, with its starry blue ceiling, are artistic marvels that leave visitors speechless. Beyond its mosaics, Ravenna is a lively city of narrow cobblestone streets, excellent local cuisine, and a strategic location close to the beaches of the Adriatic Riviera, making it a profound cultural contrast to the maritime glamour of Venice.

Nearby