Ravenna Byzantium. Open the left menu is equal. Location on the map

Useful information for tourists about Ravenna in Italy - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.

Ravenna is one of the most ancient and important cities in Italy, the center of the province of the same name, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, 10 km from the Adriatic coast. In the 5th century it became the capital of the Western Roman Empire, and then was the main city of the Ostrogothic state, the Exarchate of Ravenna and the Lombard Kingdom. Eight monuments of Ravenna from late antiquity are included in the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites.

Ravenna was once a small settlement of the Etruscans or Umbrians, and only in the 2nd century BC. The Romans appeared here and captured the entire Padan plain. A hundred years later, on the site of the ancient settlement, by order of Emperor Octavian Augustus, the military port of Classis was founded, around which a whole city has since grown. At the end of the 4th century, when the Roman Empire split into Eastern and Western, Milan became the capital of the latter, but after the siege of the city in 402, Emperor Honorius was forced to move the capital to Ravenna. It was then that the first Christian churches and other religious buildings were built in the city. Ravenna becomes the economic, political and cultural center of the empire.

In 476, the Western Roman Empire ceased to exist as a result of incessant wars and strife, and several decades later the Ostrogothic king Theodoric became the ruler of Italy, who also made Ravenna his residence. The Ostrogoths ruled the Apennine Peninsula for almost fifty years until they were replaced by the Byzantines in the mid-6th century. From 540 until the first half of the 8th century, Ravenna was the capital of an independent state entity - the Exarchate of Ravenna.

Only in 751 the city was captured by the Lombards, who destroyed many ancient monuments. Then, in the 8th-15th centuries, Ravenna changed hands. In the 13th century, the city was ruled by the da Polenta family, with whom the great Dante found his final refuge - it was Francesca da Polenta that the famous Italian poet idolized all his life. Dante's tomb has become one of the main attractions of Ravenna.

In the 15th century, Ravenna was part of the Venetian Republic - it was then that the Brancaleone fortress was built. And then it became part of the Papal States, within which for a long time it remained an unremarkable provincial town. The fields surrounding Ravenna began to turn into swamps, and the city itself slowly went under water. In 1636, the sea came so close that it flooded the city center. Only timely measures to irrigate the fields made it possible to save the city with its priceless historical and architectural monuments.

Ravenna is extremely rich in unique attractions, among which, first of all, it is worth noting the monuments of the early Christian and Byzantine eras, which became UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites in 1996. These are the mausoleums of Galla Placidia and Theodoric, the Orthodox baptistery and the Arian baptistery, the basilicas of Sant Apollinare Nuovo, San Vitale and Sant'Apollinare in Classe and the archbishop's chapel. Almost all of these buildings are decorated with ancient Byzantine mosaics. Also worthy of special attention are the 18th-century Cathedral of Santo Spirito, the Brancaleone fortress and the Franciscan Church of San Francesco, where Dante was buried.

Around Ravenna you can find many clean sandy beaches and natural parks. The most popular local resort, especially among young people, is the modern Lido Adriano. In Punta Marina Terme there is a whole complex of cottages surrounded by a pine forest. And here on the beach there is a thalassotherapy center. And the most hotels are located in Lido di Savio, 20 km from Ravenna - this resort is equipped with equestrian and rowing schools, tennis courts, shops and swimming pools.

Ravenna- a seaside resort, once the center of the Eastern Roman Empire, today it is a small but very beautiful Italian city with its own unique characteristics. There are many attractions concentrated here, some of which are currently included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. But Ravenna is best known for its amazing mosaics, which, as before, decorate the walls of churches and monuments.

What to see in Ravenna on your own?

Beautiful places and main attractions: photos with descriptions in Russian.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Ravenna is famous for its amazing mosaics and UNESCO heritage sites. All this is combined in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, erected in the first half of the 5th century. In 1966, this contrasting and mysterious architectural structure was included in the UNESCO list, and the mosaic that adorns the walls of the mausoleum is considered the oldest in the city.

Originally it was a chapel that was part of the Church of Santa Croce. Later, when the street was laid out in honor of Galla Placidia, part of the sanctuary had to be dismantled, after which the chapel turned into a separate structure. The mausoleum of Galla Placidia did not become the place of her burial, but three sarcophagi: for her, her husband and son are located inside. There are questions about the remains buried in these sarcophagi that have not been answered to this day.

From an architectural point of view, this is a very contrasting structure. A modest, small building, cruciform in shape, made of red brick, amazes with the splendor of its interior decoration.

• Address: Via Giuliano Argentario, 22
• Opening hours: from 01.04 to 30.09 from 9:00 to 19:00, in October and March - until 17:30, from 01.11 to 28.02 - until 17:00.
• The cost of a single ticket for “Mosaics of Ravenna” (includes 5 attractions) is 9.50 euros, from 01.03–15.06 you need to pay an additional 2 euros. Children under 10 years old are free.

Mausoleum of Theodoric

The Mausoleum of Theodoric was built in 520 AD by the Ostrogoth king, who ruled Ravenna at that time. This mausoleum is the only surviving creation of the Ostrogoths, and therefore, in 1996, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The mausoleum is located in the middle of a Gothic cemetery. This is a round structure with a dome made of solid stone, it is installed on a ten-sided pedestal. A distinctive feature of this structure is that, in comparison with the luxurious temples and mausoleums of Ravenna, there is not a single decoration inside, with the exception of traces of the cross that once adorned the upper tier, and the red bowl that served as the tomb for Theodoric. During the reign of Justinian, the remains of the Ostrogoth king were removed from the mausoleum, after which the building was turned into a chapel.

• Address: Via delle Industrie, 14.
• Opening hours: in summer from 8:30 to 19:00.
• Entrance: 4 euros standard, 2 euros reduced. Admission is free every first Sunday of the month.

Arian Baptistery

The Arian Baptistery was built between the 5th and 6th centuries on behalf of the Ostrogothic king Theodoric. The king was a follower of the Arian branch of Christianity, which is why the baptistery received such a name, but in appearance it is very similar to the Neon (Orthodox) baptistery. In the middle of the 6th century, the baptistery was turned into an oratory of the Virgin Mary, when Arianism began to be suppressed. In 1996, along with other monuments in Ravenna, the baptistery was included in the UNESCO list.

Externally, the structure looks quite simple. The walls are made of red brick. The building itself is small in size and consists of two tiers. The first one has no windows, only an entrance to the room and several semicircular projections. On the second tier there are small windows in the shape of arches.

Inside, the dome of the baptistery is decorated with a mosaic with a scene of the baptism of Christ, and around it are depicted the twelve apostles, separated from each other by small palm trees.

• Address: Piazzetta degli Ariani.

Church of the Holy Spirit in Ravenna

The Church of the Holy Spirit is located literally a few meters from the Arian Baptistery. This is another early Christian building from the early 6th century. The church was erected during the reign of the Ostrogoth king Theodoric. However, like many religious buildings in Ravenna, the Church of the Holy Spirit, after the death of the Ostrogothic king, came under the patronage of the Orthodox branch of Christianity.

The only, but at the same time the most noticeable, decoration of the facade of the building is a portico with large arches running in a row, separated only by thin, even columns. The church consists of three parts: a nave and galleries, they are separated by columns. The altar, made of Greek marble, has been preserved in its original form.

• Address: Piazzetta degli Ariani, 1.
• Admission during services is from 10:00 to 12:00 on Sundays. Tourist visits are prohibited.

Neonian Baptistery

Neonian Baptistery, Neon Baptistery or Orthodox Baptistery are all names of the same religious building in Ravenna. The Baptistery received its name in honor of Bishop Neon. This step was necessary in order to be able to distinguish between the two baptisteries in Ravenna, which are very similar in appearance.

The Baptistery of Neon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as one of the early Christian buildings, also decorated inside with magnificent mosaics, comparable to those in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia or the Basilica of San Vitale. It covers all the walls and the dome of the baptistery. Inside there is a large octagonal baptismal font. In general, the interior decoration is very elegant, but from the outside the baptistery looks quite simple.

• Address: Via Gioacchino Rasponi.
• Opening hours: from April 1 to September 30 from 9:00 to 19:00, in October and March from 9:30 to 17:30, from November 1 to February 28 - from 10:00 to 17:00.

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe

The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe is one of the main churches of Ravenna. It was built in the middle of the 6th century on the site where the patron and first bishop of Ravenna, St. Apollinaris. “Klasse” is the name of one of the districts of the city in which the church is located. Today it is one of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The basilica has an oblong shape, the size of the building is 55 m by 30 m. The walls are made of thin bricks, between which a rather thick layer of white mortar can be seen. There are semicircular windows along the perimeter of the building. Next to the basilica there is a tall round tower.

When entering the basilica, the first thing that attracts attention is the colonnade of two rows. In this way, the internal space is divided into three naves, where the central one is the largest, and the side ones are much smaller. The basilica is decorated with mosaics from the reign of Justinian, in addition there are sarcophagi with the relics of bishops, and the main value is the relics of St. Apollinaria, which are in the altar.

• Address: Via Romea Sud, 224.

Archbishop's Chapel and Museum

The archbishop's chapel was erected during the reign of the Ostrogoth king Theodoric, between the 5th and 6th centuries, as an episcopal house church. The chapel was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as one of the early Christian buildings.

The base of the chapel is laid out in the shape of an elongated (Greek) cross. The inside of the church is decorated with mosaics on which you can see plant motifs and biblical scenes.

The Archbishop's Museum was opened in the 17th century; its exhibits are finds that were made on the territory of churches belonging to the diocese. The museum's greatest treasures are an ivory throne and a silver cross that belonged to two archbishops of Ravenna who served in the 6th century.

• Address: Piazza Arcivescovado, 1.
• Opening hours: from April 1 to September 30 from 9:00 to 19:00, October and March from 9:30 to 17:30, from November 1 to February 28 from 10:00 to 17:00.
• Admission: single ticket “Mosaics of Ravenna” - 9.50 euros, reduced price - 8.50 euros. Admission for children under 10 years old is free.

Dante's Tomb

Dante Alighieri, author of the famous Divine Comedy, died in Ravenna in 1321 and was buried in that city in the Basilica of San Francesco. Dante spent the last years of his life in Ravenna due to expulsion from his native Florence. And only after his death, when it became clear that Dante had glorified himself throughout the centuries, it was decided to transport the poet’s ashes to Florence. But the sarcophagus brought from Ravenna turned out to be empty. And all because the residents of Ravenna did not want to part with their beloved poet, so the monks of the Church of San Francesco secretly removed Dante’s remains and hid them on the territory of the monastery. After this, the poet’s ashes were moved several times in connection with historical events.

Dante's tomb, in which his ashes now rest, was built in 1780. This is a very small but quite elegant building, made in the neoclassical style. Inside there is a sarcophagus with an urn, and on the wall, transferred from the Church of San Francesco, is a bas-relief of the poet.

• Address: Via Dante Alighieri, 9.

Basilica of San Francesco

The Basilica of San Francesco, which is located in Ravenna, was built in the 10th-11th centuries on the site of a small church from the 5th century. It was originally consecrated in honor of St. Peter's, but in 1261, after it passed to the Franciscans, the basilica acquired its current name.

This church is known not only to the residents of Ravenna, but also to all admirers of Dante, because it was here in 1321 that the great poet was buried, and then buried. In addition, finds from the 5th century attract attention.

The church has a rectangular base ending in a semicircular apse. Next to the basilica rises a 33-meter bell tower. The church is divided into three naves by colonnades of twelve columns. Under the apse there is a crypt with a mosaic floor, which is now below the groundwater level, and real goldfish swim in the resulting water cover.
Today the monastery is not active, now it is a museum of the city of Ravenna.

• Address: Ravenna Piazza San Francesco 1
• Free admission.

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo

The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ravenna. It was built during the reign of King Theodoric at the turn of the 5th and 6th centuries and served as a royal church. Unfortunately, today only ruins remain of the royal palace, next to which the basilica was located.

During its existence, the basilica underwent some changes, in particular, in the 10th-11th centuries, a high bell tower was added, and later, in the 16th century, the façade of the building began to be decorated with a white marble portico. Most of the mosaics from the Arian period have been lost without compensation, but you can admire equally beautiful works from more recent times.

Of particular interest to tourists are the frescoes (in the first chapel from the entrance), which depict scenes of the Second World War.

• Address: Via di Roma, 52.
• Time: from April 1 to September 30 from 9:00 to 19:00, in October and March from 9:30 to 17:30, from November 1 to February 28 - from 10:00 to 17:00.
• Admission: single ticket “Mosaics of Ravenna” - 9.50 euros, reduced price - 8.50 euros. Admission for children under 10 years old is free.

Basilica of San Vitale

The Basilica of San Vitale is the most beautiful structure of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ravenna. First of all, its unusual design attracts attention - an octagonal base with apses, stairs, towers and many windows.

The Basilica of San Vitale was built by the Bishop of Ravenna in the mid-6th century. The architecture of Byzantium made a great impression on the bishop, and therefore he decided to embody all the most beautiful things he saw in his hometown. Without a doubt, he succeeded. White marble walls, an abundance of light, an unusual design, amazingly beautiful mosaics, the subjects and craftsmanship of which can be discussed for hours, will not leave indifferent any tourist who has crossed the threshold of the Basilica of San Vitale.

• Address: Via Argentario, 22.
• Time: from April 1 to September 30 from 9:00 to 19:00, in October and March - until 17:30, from November 1 to February 28 - until 17:00.
• Admission: single ticket “Mosaics of Ravenna” - 9.50 euros, reduced price - 8.50 euros. Admission for children under 10 years old is free.

Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo, translated from Italian as "People's Square", is the central square of the city, where all the main cultural and social events of Ravenna take place.

In the 13th century, the palace of the ruler of the city, Palazzo del Podesta and the Palace of the Papal Viceroy, were built, and the landscaped space between the palaces turned into Piazza del Comune. In the middle of the 15th century, after the Venetians came to power, the Venetian Palace was erected next to the square, where the City Hall was located.

Over the centuries-old history of its existence, Piazza del Popolo has witnessed many reconstructions and new construction of the buildings surrounding it, they changed their purpose, but invariably remained the main buildings of the city, and thus the square itself acquired important geographical and political significance. And in 1946, Piazza del Popolo received its current name.

• Address: Piazza del Popolo

Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ is the main religious building of Ravenna. The city's cathedral was built on the site of the first cathedral, erected at the turn of the 6th and 5th centuries and was also consecrated in honor of the Resurrection of Christ. Thirteen centuries later, the first cathedral became so dilapidated that it was decided to dismantle it and build a new one in its place. The consecration of the new cathedral took place in 1749.

Some details from the ancient building were still preserved, for example, four columns of the 5th century decorate the facade of the building. They are built into a three-arched portico. In addition, sarcophagi have been preserved (of particular value are the sarcophagus of Monsignor Rinaldo da Concorreggio and the sarcophagus of St. Barbatian), the pulpit of Bishop Agnellus and some other relics of the 5th century. The cathedral is quite large in size, it consists of three naves, where the central nave reaches 60 meters in length.

• Address: Piazza Duomo.

Archaeological sieve Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra

Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra is a fairly new archaeological discovery. In 1993, during the construction of an underground garage, traces of ancient mosaics were found. This place is called the carpet museum, but there is not a single carpet there. The fact is that the floor is decorated with amazing mosaic patterns, when looking at which you get the impression that there really is a patterned carpet on the floor.

The museum is not very large, but the exhibits are worth visiting, especially since it is located on the way to the most famous attractions of the city - the Mausoleum of Gala Placidia and the Basilica of San Vitale. Despite the fact that the museum is located underground, the lighting is very good, and tourists note that the photographs taken in the museum are of high quality.

• Address: Via Gian Battista Barbiani - 16.
• Entrance: 4 euros for adults, 3 euros for children

National Museum

The National Museum is housed in a former monastery, and is located in close proximity to the Basilica of San Vitale. The museum was opened in 1804, and in 1885 it received its current name. Most of the exhibits are made up of utensils from monasteries that were closed during secularization at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. In addition, the museum houses a collection of Roman coins. Of particular importance to the museum is the reliquary (5th century) with interesting carvings.

The painting in the museum is represented by various frescoes from the Middle Ages, of which eight frescoes painted by Pietro da Rimini in the first half of the 14th century are of great value. There are also exhibits from more recent times: a collection of paintings and textiles that can be dated back to the 17th-18th centuries.

The National Museum is worth a visit for every tourist who wants to get to know the history of the beautiful city of Ravenna.

• Address: Via San Vitale, 17
• Admission: Adult -5 euros, reduced price -2.50 euros, under 18 years old - free
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 to 19:30, ticket office closes at 19:00, closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1 and December 25

Library Classense

The Classense Library is no ordinary library. This is a preserved library of monks, which was created in the 17th century. It belongs to the Abbey of Di Classe, and the books filling the library were collected by the monks of the Camaldolian congregation. Of particular importance are the manuscripts of Pietro Canneti, who was the abbot of the monastery. In addition, the library's assets include various codices, incunabula, rare and ancient books, historical paintings and photographs. In total, if we take into account modern literature, the collection of the Klassense library numbers about 800 thousand items.

This majestic temple of culture is worth visiting for every tourist. You don't have to take books to read. Just visit the main hall, where time has stood still. It has two tiers of bookshelves decorated with floral motifs. The white walls of the hall depict portraits and historical scenes, enclosed in elegant stucco frames, as well as statues of great men.

• Address: Via Alfredo Baccarini - 3.
• Free admission

Brancaleone Fortress

The Brancaleone fortress took almost two decades to build; the final work was carried out in 1470. Construction began after the Venetians came to power, who wanted to build a reliable fortification around the city. The fortress walls stretched over 14 thousand square meters and became part of the city walls. At first glance, everyone will understand that this is a very powerful structure that will withstand even the strongest enemy attacks.

The walls have four towers (two round at the edges and two semicircular in the middle). The citadel, which has four towers, creates an even stronger impression. All towers of the fortress and citadel have their own names.

The walls of the fortress are made of red brick. Of the decorative elements, two bas-reliefs have been preserved: the Lion of St. Mark and the Virgin Mary and Child.

At the end of the twentieth century, the territory of the fortress was improved: a children's playground was built, a stage for musical performances was erected, and annual film screenings are held in the open air.

• Address: Rocca Brancaleone

Ravenna Planetarium

The planetarium in Ravenna is located on the territory of the city garden and began its work in 1985. The planetarium does not have very large external dimensions, but it has a fairly spacious auditorium with 56 seats.

The planetarium building is a one-story structure. The lower part of the building is lined with large white scarves imitating marble. The central entrance is located under a canopy supported by four columns painted black. The dome of the planetarium has an uneven hemispherical shape and slightly angular edges.

From the inside, the dome is represented by many stars, planets and other space objects. When the lights turn off and the heavenly lights come on, and the mechanism automatically sets the entire structure in motion, there is not a single doubt left that the visitor’s chair is not in the auditorium, but on board a spaceship.

• Address: Viale Santi Baldini, 4
• Visits are possible from Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 12.30; on Tuesday and Friday additionally from 20:30 to 22:30.

Amusement park Mirabilandia

Mirabilandia is a place that not only children, but also adults will want to visit. It was opened in 1992 and is constantly developing and improving. It is not without reason that this amusement park is considered the largest and most interesting in all of Italy. It stretches over 850 thousand square meters, and is divided into three parts, where most of it is given over to parking spaces, 300 thousand square meters is a theme park, and 100 thousand is a water park. The number of visitors only increases every year.

The amusement park has more than forty different attractions and entertainment areas, they are divided into seven thematic areas. It’s also worth taking a ride on practically the largest Ferris wheel in Europe, only the London attraction is bigger.

Every tourist planning a holiday in Ravenna should definitely allow himself to go to Mirabilandia and enjoy hours of carefree childhood.

• Address: Strada Statale 16, km 162.
• Opening hours: open from mid-April to mid-October every day from 10:00 to 18:00, depending on holidays, the schedule may change.
• Ticket prices: adults - 34 euros, children - 28 euros (height below 140 cm and age under 10 years), children under three years old - free. To visit the water park you need to add 9.5 euros and 7.5 euros for adults and children respectively.

Paguro platform

The Paguro platform has attracted diving enthusiasts for more than fifty years. In 1965, an accident occurred on the Paguro platform during work on a methane field. After the disaster, the platform sank to the bottom of the sea, to a depth of about 25 meters. Since then, the remains of Paguro have attracted outdoor enthusiasts.

As a rule, tourists go there in order to take a closer look at the rare underwater inhabitants that have found refuge on the wreckage of the platform. Visibility under water varies: from a few decimeters to 18 meters. At depth, the temperature can drop to 10 degrees Celsius, so you should take care of the appropriate equipment. According to experienced divers, underwater trips in these places are quite difficult, but interesting.

In 1995, the flow of tourists increased so much that it was decided to create the Paguro Association to protect underwater inhabitants.

• Location: Marina di Ravenna port

Garden of Forgotten Plants

The Garden of Forgotten Plants (Rasponi Garden) is a piece of paradise in a busy city. It is located at the crossroads of Via Guerrini and Via Rasponi. A special atmosphere is provided by thick brick walls that protect visitors from the bustle of the city, as well as ancient castles, reminiscent of bygone times, between which there is a garden.

One day, the city administration, together with the People's Bank of Ravenna, thought about a wonderful gift for the residents of their hometown; they wanted to create a place where they could take a break from the hustle and bustle and, at the same time, spend time profitably. This is how the Rasponi Garden appeared.

A distinctive feature of this green corner is the abundance of various plants, from rare medicinal herbs to common culinary herbs. Beautiful flower beds and a central fountain decorated with wrought iron will make your walk even more enjoyable. In addition, famous Ravenna attractions are located very close to the garden.

• Address: intersection of Via Guerrini and Via Rasponi.
• Free admission

Garden of Palazzo della Provincia

The garden of Palazzo della Provincia is a very interesting place, where stone historical elements and fresh, lush plant life are combined. But what makes the garden most interesting is that it is located on the roof of the Palazzo della Provincia.

The palace building was erected in the second quarter of the 20th century and represents a symbiosis of “new romanticism” and elements of Byzantine culture. The modern building was built on the site of the Rasponi Palace, which at the end of the 19th century was converted into a hotel, and then, in 1922, it was completely consumed by fire. However, some elements have been preserved and are now of historical value.

One of the remains of an ancient culture is the Crypt of Rasponi, a mosaic preserved on the floor that dates back to the 6th century and was formerly part of the Basilica of San Severo. In addition to details of the past, in the garden, and in particular in the crypt, you can find objects of modern art.

• Address: Piazza S. Francesco
• Time: from June 8 to October 9: daily from 10:00 to 14:00. From October 11 to November 15: on weekends from 10:00 to 18:00. From November 16, the crypt will be closed.
• Entrance 2 Euro.

Byron's house

Lord Byron lived in Ravenna from 1819 to 1921 in the Palazzo Guiccioli. This seemingly small period of time played a very important role in the poet’s life. Here he met his love in the person of Teresa Guiccioli. She was the young wife of Count Alessandro Guiccioli, who was the owner of the Palazzo Guiccioli.

The poet's life during this period was filled with many events of various emotional tones, perhaps thanks to this, the years spent in Ravenna turned out to be very fruitful in terms of Byron's creative success.

The Guiccioli Palace was built in the 16th century by the Osio family from Milan and was originally called Palazzo Osizo, but in 1802 it was sold to the Guiccioli family and has since had its current name. In 1843 it was sold to the Rasponi family, and after 1921 it became state property. In 1990, the palace came under the control of the municipality and only years later, it was decided to open a museum in this building dedicated to the memory of the great poet Byron.

• Via Camillo Benso Cavour, 52−54

Museum of Art in Ravenna

The building in which the art museum is located is in itself an architectural treasure of the 16th century. This is the ancient monastery of Loggetta Lombardesca, belonging to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Porto. It is a large Renaissance building with a beautiful courtyard surrounded by an elegant colonnade.

Various temporary exhibitions are regularly held on the ground floor; modern mosaicists (artists working with mosaics) often take part. On the second floor there are copies of ancient sculptures. And on the third floor there is a very interesting collection of religious art. The museum permanently displays a collection of modernist and medieval art. The museum also houses the International Mosaic Documentation Center.

• Address: Via di Roma, 13
• Entrance: full 3 euros, reduced 2 euros
• Working hours:
  Tue, Thu and Fri 9.00 −13.30 / 15.00 - 18.00
  Wed and Sat 9.00 −13.30
  Sun 15.00 - 18.00
  Closed - Mondays
  Every Saturday from September 27 to January 11 - the museum is open from 9.00 to 18.00.
  Open: November 1, December 26, Easter, Easter Monday, April 25, May 1, June 2
  Closed: August 15, December 25 and January 1

TAMO Museum (Tamo Museo del Mosaico)

The TAMO Museum (full name - Tutta l "Avventura del Mosaico) is a museum of mosaics for which Ravenna is so famous. The museum's exhibition shows visitors the most interesting finds, as well as the stages of development of this art from ancient times to the present day. Such a great asset of the museum is due because for the most part it is represented by copies of famous mosaics.However, the quality of these duplicates is at a very high level, which is practically impossible to distinguish from the real ones.

The museum is located in the old Basilica of San Nicolo. At the TAMO Museum you can not only see beautiful mosaics from different times, but also learn this art from masters who clearly show and tell all the stages of creating a mosaic masterpiece.

The TAMO Museum is worth visiting for those tourists who want to learn as much as possible about the main value of Ravenna (its mosaics), but they have too little time to visit all the attractions.

• Address: Via Rondinelli, 2
• Entrance: 4 euros;
• Opening hours until October 9: every day from 10:00 - 14:00. From October 11: Mon - Fri from 10:00 - 17:00; Saturday, Sunday and holidays - from 10:00 to 18:00.

Ravenna may not captivate you instantly, but after staying here for some time, you will be surprised to notice that you don’t want to leave here at all. Ravenna will slowly and gradually win your heart and leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Which was the capital three times: of the Roman Western Empire (402-476), the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths (493-553) and the Byzantine Exarchate (568-751).
It is difficult to say when the first settlements appeared on the site of modern Ravenna; perhaps they were the Etruscans and Umbrians; later the Gauls, the Senones, lived here.
One thing is known: the sea played a key role in the creation of Ravenna, which also attracted the Romans. Octavian Augustus stationed a military fleet and created a hydraulic system consisting of a canal that connected the Po River with a reservoir in the south of Ravenna, and here the military port of Classe was founded, which could accommodate 10 thousand sailors and 250 triremes to control the eastern Mediterranean.
This suggests that Ravenna played an important role in the Roman Empire. Over time, the military port also became a commercial one.
In 402, Emperor Honorius moved his residence to Ravenna to avoid the threat of Alaric. At this time, the city is expanding and being built.
But at the same time, the lagoon in which the port was located falls asleep, and the port becomes useless.
In Ravenna, destinies were decided and important decisions were made in the Western Empire, until in 476 the last Roman emperor, Romulus Augustus, was overthrown by Odoacer, king of the Goths. Romulus was allowed to retire to a villa in the south and receive a pension.
But Odoacer's kingdom had a short life, and already in 493 Theodoric, king of the Ostrogoths, marched on Italy and, having defeated Odoacer's troops, locked him in fortified Ravenna. Odoacer, seeing that resistance was futile, surrendered on condition of saving his life, but a few days later he was killed. There were rumors that Odoacer was preparing a conspiracy against Theodoric, and, having learned about this, the king of the Ostrogoths was quick to take revenge. Having invited Odoacer to a feast, Theodoric killed his opponent with his own hands. This is how the Ostrogothic kingdom was founded, the capital of which became.
Theodoric admired everything Roman and made it his goal to instill Roman culture among the Ostrogoths.
The artistic dawn of Ravenna began. At this time, many churches and cathedrals were rebuilt.
But there was also a great contradiction between the Romans and the Ostrogoths: the Ostrogoths were Arians, and the Romans were Ravenna– Orthodox. At first, Theodoric was tolerant of Orthodoxy, but then persecution and persecution began. And, in the end, they issued a decree that prohibited the Orthodox faith.
But at this time, in 526, Theodoric died. After his death, unrest, uprisings and riots began. The Byzantine emperor Justinian the Great took advantage of this and decided to subjugate Italy and destroy the kingdom of the Ostrogoths.
The war lasted about 20 years. And in 544 the Ostrogoths were expelled from Italy.
To resolve Italian affairs, Justinian created a viceroyalty with the capital in Ravenna. The governor of Ravenna bore the title of exarch.
In 751, the exarchate fell under the pressure of the Lombards. By the will of the Frankish king Pepin the Short, it came under the rule of the pope in 754. During these years, many works of art were created in Ravenna - mosaics, statues, and the port of Class was revived.
In the Middle Ages it was under the rule of noble families.
In 1509 the city became part of the papal states and remained there for 350 years.
During this time, a new Cathedral and numerous churches, temples, and Dante's grave were built.
After a short Napoleonic conquest, it returned to the papal states and remained there until 1859, when the city joined the Kingdom of Sardinia, and in 1861 Ravenna became part of the united Italy.

Now it is an important Italian city, visited by millions of tourists to admire its attractions, eight of which are under UNESCO protection:

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia (early 4th century)
- Baptistery of Neonian (late 4th century)
- Archbishop's Chapel (about 500)
- Basilica of St. Appolinarius New (early 6th century)
- Mausoleum of Theodoric (circa 520)
- Arian Baptistery (early 6th century)
- Basilica of St. Vitalian (early 6th century)
- Basilica of Saint Appolinarius in Classe (consecrated in 547)

On the way from the railway station to the city center, the first thing on the way is Church of St. John the Evangelista (San Giovanni Evangelista).

The church was built in the 5th century. Galla Placidia in memory of her rescue in 424 during a storm on the road from Constantinople. Her salvation was attributed to the intercession of John the Evangelist.
In the 10th century A 42-meter-high bell tower was added to the church. In the Middle Ages, a Benedictine monastery was formed next to the church. The church was later rebuilt several times and was heavily damaged during bombing in 1944.
The walls of the church were decorated with mosaics that depicted the miraculous salvation of Galla Placidia and her children. But the mosaics have not survived to this day. Fragments of 13th-century mosaics remain, depicting animals and scenes from the Fourth Crusade.

Turning left onto via di Roma we'll get to Basilica of St. Appolinarius New (S. Apollinare Nuovo).

The basilica was founded by Theodoric in 526, at that time it was an Arian basilica, but after the Goths desecrated the church in 561, the basilica was consecrated in the Catholic faith. In the 9th century. the temple acquired the relics of Saint Apollinaris and began to be called by the name of the saint. But since in Ravenna There was already a church dedicated to Saint Apollinaris, then this temple was called New.
The facade of the church is decorated with a portico, which appeared in the 16th century. The three-nave temple is decorated with magnificent Byzantine mosaics.

Basilica of St. Appolinarius New. Ravenna. Italy.

We'll refund via di Roma back and turn to via Angelo Mariani, passing by the Alighiere Theater, we reach Dante's tomb.

The tomb was built in 1780-81. designed by the architect Camillo Morigia.
But this was preceded by a whole series of incredible events in which Dante was involved even after his death.
A native of Florence, Dante was not only a poet, but also an active citizen. He participated in city government and prevented supporters of the Pope from seizing power in Florence. When the opponents won, Dante was sentenced to death.
He fled, wandered around the world and spent the last 6 years of his life in Ravenna, where he created his great "The Divine Comedy"- a poem about walking through the circles of hell, being in purgatory and heaven.
Dante died in 1321 from swamp fever.
But the struggle for the bones of the great poet continued for several centuries. Florence claimed that Dante should be buried in his homeland. In 1519, the poet’s sarcophagus was transported to Florence, but upon opening it, they discovered that the coffin was empty. Enterprising Franciscan monks from Ravenna They hid the remains, which were secretly buried in the Franciscan monastery in Sienzo.

In 1677, Dante's ashes were placed in a wooden shrine, and after 1810, when Napoleon began to close the monasteries, the coffin was hidden under the portico of Braccioforte next to Dante's mausoleum. Until in 1865, workers began to make repairs in the adjacent chapel, where a box with a complete skeleton and the inscription was found: "The Bones Belong to Dante".
Doctors conducted an examination and established the authenticity of the remains. The bones were put on public display for several days.
During World War II, the poet's ashes were transferred again.

The modern mausoleum has the shape of a neoclassical temple, which has a square base, covered with a small dome. Inside there is a real grave, decorated with marble, above the sarcophagus there is a bas-relief and a Latin epitaph written in 1327 by Bernardo Canaccio:

“The rights of the sovereign, the heavens, the waters of Phlegethon, I sang as I walked through my earthly vale. Now my soul has gone to a better world and is blissful, contemplating among the luminaries of its Creator, here I rest, Dante, expelled from the fatherland, my native Florence, my little loving mother.” .

To the left of the mausoleum is located Dante Museum, opened in 1921. The museum stores models of monuments to the poet, busts, reliefs, paintings, medallions, memorial wreaths, and certificates. The museum contains a wooden shrine created in 1677 for Dante's remains by Franciscan Antonio Santi and a glass box in which his bones were laid during the examination of the poet's skeleton in 1865.

Let's get to piazza Duomo.
Cathedral was built in the 18th century. architect Gianfrancesco Buanamichi. The first Cathedral on this site, called the Basilica of Ursiana, was built in the 5th century, but by the beginning of the 18th century. it was almost completely destroyed. The cathedral houses sarcophagi from the 5th century, a revered wooden icon of the Madonna Sudore (1300), and stained glass windows by Guido Reni.

Baptistery of Neoniana, also called Orthodox Baptistery- the oldest monument Ravenna.

It was erected at the end of the 4th century. The Baptistery is a simple building covered with a dome and decorated with magnificent mosaics. The mosaic pattern depicts the scene of the Baptism of Christ in the waters of the Jordan with the 12 apostles in a circle.

Archbishop's Chapel, also called the Chapel of St. Andrew, was built by Bishop Peter II as a personal chapel at the end of the 5th century. This is the only Orthodox monument erected during the reign of Theodoric, when the Arian cult dominated. The entire chapel is covered with mosaics.
Open: until March 31 9.30-17.30, from April 1 9-19.
Piazza Arcivescovado.

This is one of the important archaeological monuments of Italy, recently discovered.
The spacious hall is located 3 meters below ground level, its floor is covered with magnificent mosaics of the 5th-6th centuries, which are woven into decorative geometric patterns, flowers and Christian symbols.
Open: March – October 10-18.30,
November – February Mon-Fri 10-17.00, Sat-Sun 10-18.00, Mon – closed.
Ticket 4 euros.

In 100 meters there will be Church of St. Vitalian (San Vitale) was erected in 525 by the bishop Ravenna. It is one of the most important and beautiful monuments of early Christianity in Ravenna.

At its base, the church has an octagon, and the number 8 symbolizes the day of the Resurrection of Christ, which was the eighth day according to the Hebrew calendar. Repeating arches give lightness and weightlessness to the temple. The inside of the church is covered with magnificent Byzantine mosaics.

Next to the Church of St. Vitalian is Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

This small chapel was perhaps dedicated to the martyr Lawrence. Lawrence was one of the most popular saints among members of the Theodosian dynasty, whose daughter was Galla.
Inside, the floor, walls, ceiling are all completely covered with mosaics of the highest quality, surpassing anything that has survived in Ravenna and other Italian cities. Golden stars and a cross are scattered on the blue background of the dome; the vaults are covered with decorative patterns. There are three sarcophagi here that belong to Galla Placidia, her husband Constantine III and their son Valentian III, who was killed in 455.

Galla Placidia was a Roman empress, daughter of Theodosius the Great. She played a huge role in the Western Empire.
When she was 7 years old, her father died, dividing the Roman Empire into Western and Eastern. The Western Empire was ruled by Galla's 11-year-old brother Honorius, who, fearing the invasion of barbarian tribes in Rome, settled in a calm Ravenna.
Galla Placidia remained in Rome. And in 410, when Rome fell, Placidia was captured by Alaric, and she rode along with the barbarian army to the south, but Alaric suddenly died. Alaric was buried in Cosenza, at the bottom of the river.
Ataulf became his successor. He fell in love with a radiant and beautiful captive and was legally married to Galla; during the wedding ceremony they were dressed in Roman clothes. They lived happily, Ataulf fulfilled every whim of Galla Placidia and even at her request saved Rome from the invasion of the Visigoths, but a few years later Ataulf was killed, and Placidia was exchanged by the imperial relatives for grain. Thus ended six years of wandering.
Upon returning to Rome, Placidia was married to the Roman general Constantius, she bore him a daughter and a son, Valentinian, who at the age of six became emperor of the Western Empire, and Galla Placidia, as regent, actually ruled the empire and had a powerful influence on the Western world.

Nearby is Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, erected in the 6th century, the church was once decorated with huge mosaics, of which not a trace remains.

Church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Arian Baptistery.

The Baptistery was built by Theodoric (493-526) next to the Arian cathedral. The Baptistery became Orthodox in 561 and during the Exarchate Basilian monks served here. At the beginning of the 20th century. The small building was acquired by the state and restored.
The baptistery is a small octagonal brick building located in a small courtyard, when the baptistery had more impressive dimensions, but time and various owners reduced it. Inside, the dome of the Baptistery is decorated with Byzantine mosaics. The central scene depicts the Baptism of Christ: Christ stands waist-deep in the waters of the Jordan, flanked by an old man who is most likely the god of the river and St. John the Evangelist, and around them are the 12 apostles.

Arian Baptistery.

Open: 8.30 – 19.30 (free entry)

Mausoleum of Theodoric- one of the most famous funerary monuments of the Ostrogoths. It is located far from the city center, on the site where the Gothic cemetery was located.
The mausoleum was built in 520. Unlike other Ravenna buildings, the mausoleum is made of Istra limestone, not brick. The mausoleum has a circular plan at its base and two tiers (which is typical for Roman mausoleums).
When Ravenna came under the rule of Justinian, Theodoric's body was taken out of the mausoleum, and it was converted into a chapel.

Open: until March 26 8.30-17.30
From March 27 8.30-19
Ticket 3 euros.
Address: via delle Industrie, 14.

Basilica of St. Apollinare in Classe is located 5 km from the city center near the port. It was erected in the 6th century. and dedicated to the first bishop of Ravenna. The basilica is decorated with the latest of the Ravenna mosaics from the Justinian period.

Open: 8.30-17.30, Sunday 13-19.30
Ticket 3 euros
Address: via Romea Sud.

Map of Ravenna. Italy.

Cuisine of Ravenna.

Kitchen Ravenna- This is typical Romagna cuisine, in which a large part is homemade pasta: tagliatelle, lasagna, tortelloni with herbs and ricotta, vermesh and cappelletti in meat broth, egg pasta.

And medieval Byzantium.

Tourist route in Ravenna:

• Route length: 10 km
• Walking time: about 4 - 5 hours
• Start of the route: Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Via Giuliano Argentario, 22, 48110 Ravenna
• End of route: Church of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, in the suburbs of Ravenna, Via Romea Sud, 224, 48124 Classe Ravenna

1. Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Mausoleo di Galla Placidia

The mausoleum of Galla Placidia began to be built around 440, but the sister of Emperor Honorius Galla Placidia died in 450, and is most likely buried there. built on her orders Church of Santa Croce (Chiesa di Santa Croce ), to which the mausoleum adjoins.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Behind the simple brick walls of the mausoleum lies the richest interior decoration of mosaics - one of the world heritage sites. In plan, the building has the shape of a Latin cross. Alabaster plates inserted into the window openings transform sunlight into a soft golden glow, highlighting the mosaic finish in a sophisticated color palette. The dark blue background is covered with a carpet pattern of stars and flowers in light grey, gold, turquoise and reddish tones. Figures of Christian martyrs in antique draperies emerge from the thick blue, made against the backdrop of paradise landscapes with golden deer and birds.

The figures of the apostles in the lunettes - semicircular sections of the end walls of the cruciform building - were made in the same range. The lunette above the entrance depicts “The Good Shepherd in the Garden of Eden”: Christ here is young and beardless and is made in a completely antique manner. The inner surface of the dome is decorated with gold stars on a blue background, in the center of the dome is a gold Latin cross.

Byzantine mosaics in the mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Mosaics of the mausoleum of Galla Placidia:

The mosaic decoration of the mausoleum is distinguished by rare splendor and places it among the most important monuments of early Christian art. The mosaics, although dedicated to different subjects, form an organically unified whole. They all follow the ancient Roman-Hellenistic mosaic tradition, although the origin of the masters themselves remains controversial (possible versions include Mediolan, Constantinople, Siri I, Africa). Here the Roman artistic heritage with its carefully executed details and plastic figures merged with the Christian desire for absoluteness and transcendence, which created a unique mosaic personal ensemble.

Russian art critic Pavel Muratov wrote about Mausoleum of Galla Placidia at the beginning of the 20th century:

“Italian mosaicists loved few, thick and deep colors - blue, greenand winered. The very dark blue color on the ceiling of the mausoleum of Galla Placidia is unusual and somehow incomprehensibly deep. Depending on the play of light penetrating here through the small windows, it amazingly and unexpectedly beautifully shimmers with greenish, lilac, or crimson shades. The famous image of the young Good Shepherd sitting among the snow-white sheep is set against this background. The semicircles at the windows are decorated with a large ornament with deer drinking from a spring. Garlands of leaves and fruits curl through the low arches. Seeing their splendor, one cannot help but think that humanity has never created a better artistic means for decorating church walls. And here, thanks to the tiny size of the tombstone chapel, the mosaic does not seem like a matter of vain and cold pomp. The air shining with blue fire, which is surrounded by the sarcophagus, which once contained the embalmed body of the empress, is worthy of being the dream of a fiery religious imagination. Isn’t this what the artists of colored glass in Gothic cathedrals were striving for, only in a different way?”

Symbolism of mosaics:

In the center of the hemispherical dome is a golden Latin cross, surrounded by eight hundred golden stars, united in concentric circles. The cross and stars are placed on an indigo blue background, realistically depicting the night sky. This mosaic demonstrates the triumph of Christ over death, His absolute power over the created world. Christ is symbolically shown as the Sun of Truth, surrounded by His faithful, enlightened by Him and shining in the world with His light. The mosaic points to Christ as the eternal light that darkness cannot embrace. Christ, according to the mosaicist, is the meaning and center of the existence of the universe, ready and willing to unite all humanity around himself. Hanging the high meaning of the mosaic, the skinny was put on the long time for the long-lasting Osi Maus (to the same line of the SVEP line), and at the same time, in the way, the altitude of the same hpamm.

The circle of stars surrounding the cross includes the evangelists located in the corners of the vault, represented by their golden symbolic images: a lion (Mark), a calf (Luke), an eagle (John the Theologian) and an angel (Matthew ey).

The ceiling in the “branches” of the mausoleum is covered with a complex mosaic ornament, symbolizing the Garden of Eden. Circles, stars and flowers are scattered on a dark blue background. Such an ornament is unusual for the western part of the Roman Empire; a distant similarity can only be found in the Roman Church of Santa Constance.

Sarcophagi of the mausoleum of Galla Placidia:

The mausoleum also contains three marble sarcophagi from the 5th-6th centuries.

The tomb halls are silent,

Their threshold is shady and cold,

So that the black gaze of blessed Galla,

When I woke up, I didn’t burn a stone.

Warfare and resentment

The bloody trail is forgotten and erased,

So that the resurrected voice of Placida

I did not sing the passions of the past years.

Alexander Blok, "Ravenna"

Sarcophagus of Gaul Placidia

It occupies a central place, is devoid of any decoration and is probably unfinished. Taking into account the unusually large size of the sarcophagus and the absence of any Christian symbols on it, the monument is attributed to a rich and noble pagan. The possibility of burying Gaul Placidia in it is rejected by modern historians. However, sources from the 14th-16th centuries (including the Archbishop of Pavenna Rinaldo da Concoregio) claim that through a large window in the back of the sarcophagus (now walled up) it was possible to see the body buried there, seated on a cypress throne. Presumably, we are talking about a body buried in such an unusual way no earlier than the 13th-14th centuries with the possible intention of imitating the remains of Augusta. In 1577, local boys, out of curiosity, stuck burning candles through the indicated window of the sarcophagus, which, barely touching the cypress throne, caused a fire. As a result of the fire, only a few bones, a skull and charred pieces of wood, discovered there during the opening of the sarcophagus in 1577 and 1898, were preserved in the sarcophagus.

Sarcophagus of Constantius

Its creation dates back to the 5th century, installed in the left branch of the “cross”. On its front wall is depicted Christ in the form of a lamb, his head surrounded by a halo containing the monogram of Christ - intertwined Greek letters Χ and Ρ. The Lamb stands on a rock from which four streams flow, representing the four rivers of Eden. To the right and left of the rock there are two lambs without halos, symbolizing the apostles. These images are framed by two palm trees, symbolizing the life of the righteous. In 1738, the sarcophagus was opened, and researchers discovered two well-preserved skulls with teeth in it.

Sarcophagus of Valentinian

The sarcophagus dates back to the 6th century, installed in the right branch of the “cross”. It has a semi-cylindrical lid with a scaly ornament. On the front wall there is a lamb-Christ standing at the foot of a hill from which four rivers of paradise flow, the hill is crowned with a cross, on the crossbar of which two doves sit. On both side walls there is a cross with a shell (often used in catacomb painting as a symbol of death, from which life is reborn). In 1738, this sarcophagus was also opened, and the skeletal remains of a man and a woman were discovered in it.

Opening hours of the mausoleum:

01/11-28/02	01/03-31/03	01/04-30/09	01/10-31/10
09.30-17.00	09.00-17.30	09.00-19.00	09.00-17.30

• Entrance: full € 9,50 – preferential €8.50
• Combined ticket for visiting all monuments of the Diosesis (Archbishop's Museum, Chapel of Sant'Andrea and the Ivory Throne, Neonian Baptistery, Basilica of Sant'Appolinaria Nuovo, Basilica of San Vitale) **Mausoleum of Galla Placidia from March 1st to June 15th - additional 2 euros.
• via San Vitale

2. Basilica of San Vitale

Basilica di San Vitale

The construction of the Church of San Vitale - one of the most beautiful churches - was begun by Bishop Eclesius even under the Goths, and it was completed already in 548, when Ravenna was taken by the Byzantines.

San Vitale is octagonal in plan. There are beautiful things left inside mosaics(in the list) from the middle of the 6th century, which has no equal not only in Western Europe, but also in Constantinople itself.

They were apparently made by Constantinople masters, whom Ecclesius invited to Ravenna. In the conch (the semi-domed vault crowning the apse) the Savior is depicted sitting on a dark blue ball, next to him are two angels, behind them to the left is St. himself. Vitaly, patron saint of Ravenna, and on the right is Bishop Ecclesius with a model of the temple in his hands. At the bottom of the apse on the left is Emperor Justinian surrounded by courtiers and guards, and on the right is Queen Theodora with court ladies and servants. In the lunettes, on the arches and walls of the temple, scenes from the Old and New Testaments and figures of saints are depicted.

• Church of San Vitale
• via San Vitale
• Combined ticket - € 9,50

3 Orthodox Baptistery

Battistero Neoniano

The Baptistery of Neoniano (Baptistery of the Orthodox) was built by Bishop Ursius in the 1st half of the 5th century, during an era of fierce rivalry between various church movements and communities. The foundation of the building, octagonal in plan, went 3 m into the ground. Apses and doors alternated along the outer side. From the apses only the vaults are visible from the outside.

In the 2nd half of the 5th century, Bishop Neon ordered the building to be covered with a dome and the interior decorated with magnificent mosaics. In honor of Neon, the baptistery received its modern Italian name.

The dome of the baptistery is divided into 3 parts - a central circle and two concentric rings.

In the center is the baptism of Jesus, in the first ring is the solemn procession of the 12 apostles bearing the crown. The second ring is divided into 8 parts; in the center there is an altar niche with a throne - a symbol of Christ the Pantocrator. On the sides of the thrones are gardens, fenced with bars (a symbol of Paradise), on the sides of the altars are empty chairs (seats for the elite). Between the windows there are carved niches decorated with bas-reliefs depicting prophets.

The overall mosaic composition is related to the theme of Heavenly Jerusalem. This is emphasized by the crowns in the hands of the apostles on the mosaic under the dome (symbolizing that they, as stated in the Revelation of John the Theologian, will sit on twelve thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel), four altars and four images of the prepared throne.

The mosaic under the dome is based on the baptism of Jesus Christ. In the center of the mosaic is a medallion with a baptism scene. In addition to (depicted naked) Jesus and John the Baptist, Jordan is present in the image of a man, holding a towel. Around the medallion are placed the figures of the twelve apostles, on whom blessed energy, depicted by radial rays, descends.

The figures of the apostles are made in full height and are shown in motion. The clothing of the apostles resembles the tunics of Roman patricians and is made in only two colors: white (symbolizing earthly light) and gold (symbolizing heavenly light). The faces of the apostles have a pronounced individuality.

• Baptistery of the Orthodox
• via Battistero
• daily 09.00–19.00, winter until 16.30
• Combined ticket - € 9,50

4. Dante's Tomb

Tomba di Dante

Dante's Tomb is one of the main attractions. The mausoleum, built in the classicist style in 1780, is located above the poet’s grave, at the intersection of Dante and Guido da Polenta streets.

Dante, who died of malaria in 1321, was buried in the Church of San Francesco. The poet's patron, Guido Novello da Polenta, planned to build him a magnificent tomb, but, having lost power in the city, he did not implement his project. In 1483, for the burial of Dante, by order of the city mayor Bernardo Bembo, sculptor Piepo Lombardi made a portrait of the poet, which has survived to the present day.

The Missing Dante

In 1519, at the request of Michelangelo, Pope Leo X agreed to transfer Dante's ashes to the city, but when the coffin was brought to the city, it turned out to be empty. In the Basilica of Santa Croce ( Basilica di Santa Croce) a cenotaph was built, and later it turned out that the Franciscan monks from, not wanting to part with the poet’s ashes, broke through the wall of the sarcophagus and stole his remains, which were secretly buried in the Franciscan monastery in Cienzo. In 1677, the poet’s ashes were placed in a wooden shrine, and when, after 1810, as a result of the secularization of church property carried out by Napoleon, the monks left the monastery, the coffin was hidden under the portico Braccioforte next to Dante's mausoleum in .

The coffin with Dante's ashes was discovered in 1865 during the renovation of the territory adjacent to the Church of San Francesco. The found wooden box was identified by an epitaph carved in 1677 by Antonio Santi. After this, the remains were transferred to the mausoleum, from which they were removed during the Second World War, when the city was bombed. The place where the sarcophagus was hidden is currently marked with a memorial plaque.

Mausoleum of Dante

Inside Dante's Mausoleum there is an urn made in 1483 on the orders of Bernardo Bembo. It is decorated with a Latin epitaph written in 1327 by Bernardo Canaccio:

“The sovereign's rights, the heavens, the waters of the Phlegethont, I sang as I walked through my earthly vale. Now my soul has gone to a better world and is blissful, contemplating among the luminaries of its Creator, here I rest, Dante, expelled from the fatherland, my native Florence, my little loving mother.”

Above the urn there is a bas-relief with a portrait of a pensive Dante in front of a book stand (transferred from his burial in the Church of San Francesco). Above is a gilded cross, installed in 1965 for the 700th anniversary of Dante on behalf of Pope Paul VI. On the floor in the center of the mausoleum there is a bronze wreath laid on the tomb in 1921 by the Italian army. A lamp hangs from the ceiling, which is filled with oil from , brought to Ravenna annually in September, when the city hosts « Dante's month» .

• Dante's Tomb
• via Dante Aligieri, 9
• daily 09.00–12.00, 14.00–17.00

5. Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo ( Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, 493-526) was built by the king of the Ostrogoths, the Arian Theodoric, and dedicated to the Savior. In the 2nd half of the 6th century it was re-consecrated in honor of St. Martin, Bishop of Tours. In the 9th century, the temple was reconsecrated again, this time in honor of a local saint - the first bishop of Ravenna, Apollinaris. His ashes were transferred here from a more distant basilica of the same name, located near the harbor of Ravenna, in the Classe quarter. At that time, the city basioica of St. Appolinarius began to be called “New”, so as not to confuse it with Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

Basilica architecture

Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is a typical example of an early Christian basilica: three naves without a transept. Basilica of St. Apollinaria is divided by two rows of Corinthian columns made of Greek marble (you can see engraved Greek letters in the capitals) with imposts. The altar columns are made of porphyry. Much has been preserved in the temple from the 6th century: pulpits, openwork marble fences and a relief slab.

The floor lies 1.2 m above the original level. In the 16th century, it was necessary to reconstruct the walls, sacrificing part of them, and bring the columns to the modern level. The coffered ceiling was made at the beginning of the 17th century.

Mosaics of the Basilica

Mosaic decoration of the Basilica of St. Apollinaria is included in the list of attractions in. The mosaics are divided into three parts. In the cleristorium (the section of the wall above the windows) there are 26 episodes from the life and passion of Jesus Christ. Below, between the window openings, are solemn figures of saints. Below the windows are depictions of holy martyrs and martyrs. To the left and right of the altar, respectively, are Jesus with angels and the Mother of God with angels, and to the right and left of the entrance are Theodoric’s palace and the port in Classe.

Mosaics were created during Theodoric's era by various artists. In the 60s of the 6th century, the mosaics were partially rearranged in order to eradicate the memory of the Ostrogothic rulers of Ravenna.

Academician V. N. Lazarev notes that the mosaics of the basilica

« reveal a further departure from the Hellenistic-Roman heritage, which in many ways brings them closer to the monuments of the eastern, mainly Syro-Palestinian circle».

The rearranged mosaics are less interesting than Theodoric's; Among them, the portrait of Emperor Justinian stands out (this is how it was interpreted by the restorers of the 19th century and, without any doubt, signed by them), which a number of researchers consider to be a portrait of King Theodoric.

Top mosaics:

The upper row of walls of the central nave is decorated with mosaics created on the basis of scenes from the New Testament, while there are no scenes associated with the crucifixion and death of Christ the God-Man (as some researchers believe, these scenes were undesirable among the Arians). Despite their extremely small sizes (it is impossible to see them without special optical devices while standing below), the gospel mosaics are distinguished by amazing detail, testifying to the skill of the unknown artist.

On the mosaics of this cycle, Christ is depicted beardless, the expression of His face is tender and blissful. The number of characters in the mosaics of this cycle is kept to a minimum (47 characters per 13 mosaics). For the first time in Byzantine art, the Gospel scenes are placed not in chronological order, but in the same sequence as they are mentioned in the order of Easter readings in the Church of Ravenna.

Prophets and Saints:

Under the mosaics with gospel scenes there are images of 36 prophets and saints (one in each mosaic), separated by window openings (in one block without a window a group of three saints is depicted, see illustration). Their figures are placed above the horizontal frieze separating the middle tier of the walls from the lower one, which, together with the figures of birds and the grass under their feet, should form the motif of the heavenly existence of the saints.

The saints are facing the worshipers, they are dressed in snow-white clothes, their heads are crowned with a halo, they have a book or scroll in their hands, their faces differ in individual features (there are both young and very old faces among the characters). The absence among these persons of any recognizable features characteristic of the iconography of certain saints allows us to attribute this mosaic series to the era of Theodoric. Just as in the Arian Baptistery of Ravenna, the lack of inscriptions on the mosaics of Sant'Apollinare makes it impossible to clearly identify the saints depicted.

Procession of the Holy Martyrs:

In the bottom row of the southern (to the left of the altar) wall there is a monumental image of a procession of martyrs of 26 people. The procession starts from a building labeled Palatium, which is identified with the palace of King Theodoric.

All the saints are holding their martyr's crowns in their hands. The figures of saints are separated by palm trees. Above each saint there is an (abbreviated) inscription identifying him. A holy procession passing through a field of flowers heads towards Jesus Christ seated on a throne, surrounded by four angels. In the hand of Christ there is a scepter, which, as a result of the restoration of 1860, replaced the book, opened in the words: “ Ego sum Rex gloriae» ( I am the King of Glory). Palm trees and flowers indicate the heavenly abodes in which the saints rest. In addition, the palm tree traditionally indicates the righteousness and holiness of the persons depicted, in accordance with the verses of Psalm 91 “The righteous blooms like a palm tree and rises like a cedar in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the Lord, they bloom in the courts of our God.”

All the saints depicted (with the exception of Martin of Tours and Lawrence) are dressed in the same white clothes - a sign of holiness.

• Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
• Via di Roma
• daily 09.00–19.00, winter until 16.30

6. Cathedral of Spirito Santo

Chiesa dello Spirito Santo

The Church of Spirito Santo, a former cathedral, dates back to the 5th century. This is the first church building erected King Theodoric in Ravenna.

Initially, it was dedicated to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but after the expulsion of the Aryan-Ostrogoths, it was reconsecrated by the Orthodox Byzantines in the name of the Holy Spirit.

• via degli Ariani
• daily 08.30–19.30,
• winter until 13.30, sun. St.

Baptistery of Arian (Arian Baptistery)

Next to the Church of Spirito Santo there is an octagonal Arian Baptistery (Battistero degli Ariani , 490), in the 2nd half of the 6th century turned into Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin (Chiesa di Santa Maria in Cosmedin) .

The architecture of the Arian Baptistery is similar to the Orthodox Baptistery, erected earlier in the same Ravenna, which clearly served as a model for the thematic mosaics of the Arian Temple. The wall masonry is made of thick burnt bricks. Under the roof of the baptistery there is a cornice with dentil decoration.

In the interior of the baptistery, mosaics depicting the scene of the Baptism of Christ and the Apostles are perfectly preserved. Five mosaic artists took part in the creation of the mosaic. As noted by academician V.N. Lazarev,

“compared to the mosaics of the 5th century, the colors became heavier and more variegated, the drawing deteriorated (especially of the limbs), the facial features became larger, an emphasized straightness appeared in the hard folds, the shapes acquired forgiven geometric character.”

The general character of the mosaic is monumental with features of primitivism.

Mosaic in Battistero degli Ariani

The central medallion of the dome contains a scene of the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. A special feature of the composition is the completely naked figure of Christ (down to the genitals), probably illustrating the Arian doctrine of the created nature of Jesus, as well as the personification of the Jordan River in the image of an old man in a diadem of claws with a crab and a reed staff in her hand. An illustration of the Arian doctrine that Jesus received his divine essence precisely at the moment of baptism is the fact that the water sprinkling Christ pours on his head from the beak of a dove (the Holy Spirit).

Famous church mosaics - UNESCO monument in Italy

Around the central medallion of the dome mosaic, the twelve apostles are depicted walking with crowns (except for the apostles Peter with the keys and Paul with the scroll) to the prepared throne - part hourly arrow, part counterclockwise, as a result of which the two apostles opposite the throne find themselves with their backs to each other. Unlike the Orthodox baptistery, all the apostles in the Arian temple are depicted with halos. The figures of the apostles are separated by palm trees.

7. Mausoleum of Theodoric

Mausoleo di Teodorico

Unlike other city buildings made of baked brick, Theodoric's mausoleum (520) is built from well-hewn blocks of imported Istrian limestone. Theodoric's mausoleum has an unusual decagonal shape.

The lower floor is surrounded by ten deep niches with an arched finish. The second floor, decagonal on the outside, is completely round on the inside. The building is crowned with a monolithic roof with a diameter of 11 m and weighing about 230 tons.

Built from Istrian limestone on two ten-sided tiers, which are crowned by a ten-meter dome, hewn from a single 300-ton stone, perhaps in imitation of the tents of the Germans. Since the Goths did not have the means to lift such a heavy slab, Theodoric’s mausoleum was filled with earth to the very top, after which the dome was pulled into place and the earth was removed. The Gothic cemetery that already existed outside was chosen as the site for the construction of the mausoleum.

With the transition to the rule of Justinian, Theodoric’s body was taken out of the mausoleum, and he himself was turned into a chapel. The porphyry sarcophagus of the Gothic ruler is now empty. The proximity of the stream led to the erosion of the foundations, which required the intervention of restorers in the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, art critic Pavel Muratov, who visited the mausoleum, wrote:

“In vain did the church legend plunge the soul of the Arian king into the crater , in vain she handed her over to the devil. In the popular imagination, Theodoric remained one of the patrons and protectors of Ravenna, no less powerful than the saints Romuald And Apollinapius. The tomb of the Gothic king is visited by all travelers visiting Ravenna. What attracts them here? The memory of Theodoric can hardly be dear to anyone. And yet, a visit to this mausoleum leaves in the soul of every traveler, not a historian or an erudite, a trace deeper than simple curiosity. This is one of those places in the world where, for some reason, you can vividly feel the passage of centuries, where such an abstract concept as “history” is felt with captivating force and intimacy. Here we involuntarily believe in the existence of a commonality with the past, in some strange, subtle and complex connection between our fate and the fate of the legendary king.”

In the center of the upper room there is a porphyry tomb, but Theodoric’s ashes are not there - they were scattered. A large crack is visible inside the dome, which was probably formed during the installation of the monolith: according to legend, Theodoric was predicted to die from a lightning strike, and when he took refuge in the mausoleum during a storm, lightning struck the huge monolith and incinerated the heretic king.

• Mausoleum of Theodoric
• Via delle Industry, 14
• daily Apr.–Oct. 08.30–19.00, winter until 13.00

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Ravenna route map

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe

Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe - Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe

Sant'Apollinare in Classe (Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe) is one of the best examples of an early Christian basilica in. The three-nave building of baked brick without a transept was built in 549 (almost simultaneously with the Basilica of San Vitale) over the tomb of the first bishop of Ravenna, St. Apollinaris, who began his service here.

Later, the remains of the saint were reburied in the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. Only the restored mosaics in the apse are considered original; some of the decorations (including mosaics) date back to later periods.

Interior of the Basilica of St. Apollinaria

Interior of the Basilica of St. Apollinaria in Ravenna

The basilica is decorated with the latest of the Ravenna mosaics from the Justinian period (mid-6th century), preserved in its apse. Other mosaics were created in the second half of the 7th and 9th centuries. Academician V. N. Lazarev notes:

The craftsmen who worked in Sant'Apollinare in Classe are close to those who executed the mosaics of the presbytery in San Vitale. And among them we observe a craving for simplified forms and overly bright color combinations. This is accompanied by a decrease in the quality of the drawing and a sluggish interpretation of carnation, in which the number of tonal shades noticeably decreases.

As researchers note, the mosaics of Sant'Apollinare in Classe reflect the trend of frontal depiction of figures that emerged in the post-Justinian era, in which there is a refusal to use transmission of any movements and turns.

The mosaics of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, like the basilica of San Vitale, do not represent the events of sacred history in their historical sequence, they have the purpose of illustrating dogmatic certain teachings of the Church, revealed through the symbolism of Holy Scripture. Despite the use of colored glass, smalt, gold and semi-precious stones in mosaics, marble was used for faces and light-colored clothes, which led to the appearance of more Chinese forms. This is especially noticeable in the mosaics depicting the bishops of Ravenna between the windows of the apse.

Art critic Pavel Muratov wrote about the basilica in 1911:

This church in many ways resembles the Basilica of San Apollinare Nuovo. It also has mosaics, but not on the walls of the main nave, but in the altar apse. These mosaics were executed later than everything in Ravenna, and here this art does not stand at the same height as in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia or even in San Vitale. In addition, the local mosaics were greatly affected by restoration, which made many parts of them doubtful.

In the central nave of the basilica, on a raised platform, there is a large altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary; it was created in the 11th century using materials from the altar of the 6th century. On the side of this altar, facing the presbytery, it is indicated that at this place Saint Romuald of Ravenna received two visions of the Virgin Mary (information about this was gleaned from Peter Damia neither). In front of the same altar there is a memorial slab from the 18th century, which reports, without any historical details, that the relics of St. Apollinaris were discovered at this very place. On the wall of the right nave there is a memorial plaque in memory of Pope John Paul II's visit to the basilica on May 11, 1986.

• Sant'Apollinare in Classe
• via Romea Sud, Classe,
• 6.5 km south of Ravenna
• Mon-Sat 08.30–19.30, Sun 13.00–19.00

Small Ravenna occupies a worthy place among the “star” cities of Italy. Its uniqueness, Byzantine flavor of attractions, subdued deep solidity and beauty are especially appreciated by true connoisseurs of Italy. The city with a population of only 360 thousand people has on its territory 8 sites recognized by UNESCO as the heritage of all mankind. Hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world come here to see the beautiful man-made monuments of the past.

Surprisingly, this city has always been revered by poets for centuries. In times of ups and downs, prosperity and destruction. Dante also likened it to a “symphony of light.” Although Dante can be understood, because his beloved lived in this city. For her sake he left Florence. The most life-affirming part of the Divine Comedy, “Paradise,” was created in Ravenna.

There are other versions of the poet’s special relationship to the city. But be that as it may: he is buried here. The tomb of the great poet is revered on a par with religious shrines.

And Lord Byron also rushed to Ravenna after his beloved. The result of this romantic story is the creation of a whole cycle of magnificent poems and talented dramatic works. Our great compatriot Alexander Blok also dedicated poems to this city.

Port far from the sea

When Emperor Octavian Augustus began building a port to protect Roman settlements in the 1st century AD, it seemed reasonable. The convenient location provided excellent conditions for protection from the sea. But the treachery of the Po River and underground waters gradually nullified the city planner’s plans. A Byzantine explorer and historian who arrived here in the 4th century saw “apple trees instead of masts” on the site of the port city.

Time continued to run, Ravenna developed. In the 5th – 8th centuries it was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. In the next spirals of history, oblivion and loss of prestigious status awaited her. But the legacy remained of beautiful monuments of artistic creativity and architecture. These sights are the pride of modern Ravenna.

The Adriatic Sea is currently quite far from the city - 10 kilometers. This did not interfere with the creation of excellent beaches. You can get to them quickly and comfortably. An important “plus” of a sea holiday in Ravenna is the pine forest near the coast.

Ravenna is the recognized "capital of mosaic" in Italy. Famous temples, mausoleums, cathedrals, and landmarks of the city were created during the times of early Christian and Byzantine influence on its history. In the 6th century, Byzantium had enormous political weight in the world. It was Ravenna that was the seat of the exarch - the representative of the Byzantine emperor.

The city has always been famous for its mosaic production and the artistic talents of mosaic artists. Therefore, foreign influence did not lead to the loss of our own traditions. Thanks to Byzantine influence, a magnificent symbiosis of the best achievements of both cultures occurred. That is why the mosaics decorating the historical buildings of Ravenna are not only not inferior, but sometimes even superior to the sights of Constantinople in terms of artistic value. The monuments of mosaic art in Ravenna are recognized as unsurpassed throughout the world.

The mosaics are based on simple glass, which is quite economical to produce. But adding various amounts of gold, copper, and mercury to the glass melt turns ordinary material into magically colorful pieces of smalt. The play of light on their surface creates incredible shades.

The peculiarity of Byzantine mosaics is the amazing golden background. The arrangement of pieces of smalt relative to each other gives rise to a stunning play of light. Are the rays of the sun, the reflections of candles, or the lunar haze falling on the images? The fascinating paintings delight not only specialists, but also people far from art.

This landmark of the city of Ravenna, included in the UNESCO list, is famous for housing the most ancient mosaics in the world. Anyone who has at least once visited the vaults of the amazing temple is amazed by the contrast of the external and internal decoration. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is an ascetic, gloomy building with a cubic dome. Brick, modestly decorated with vertical protrusions in the shape of arches.

But inside, an incredible sight awaits those entering! The lower part of the attraction is decorated with transparent marble, creating a feeling of airy weightlessness. The dome in rich blue and gold tones is like the firmament of heaven. Against this background, the depicted figures of Orthodox saints and archangels seem to float. Eight hundred golden stars surround a golden cross in the center of the dome. The increasing scale - a traditional Byzantine technique - enhances the visual effect.

The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia owes its existence to an extraordinary woman - the daughter of the Roman Emperor Theodosius the Great. She was brought up in Constantinople. Then she returned to her father in Ravenna, bringing Byzantine craftsmen with her. History has preserved legends about her difficult fate: she was forced into marriage twice, was captured by barbarians, and was regent of Ravenna with her young son. She was buried in Rome. But the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a worthy monument in her honor.

The eight Orthodox apostles, depicted along the perimeter of the dome, create a sense of movement with their gestures and turns of their heads. Christ in the image of the Good Shepherd seems to be looking at those entering from the walls of the vault. But despite the external diversity of the plots, all mosaics organically create a holistic perception.

Another attraction of the historical relics are the marble sarcophagi, which keep their secrets. For example, in one of them, during research, the remains of a man and a woman were discovered. Although the inscription corresponds to a different burial.

The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is so interesting that thousands of tourists strive to visit it every day. We even had to introduce a rule not to stay in the room for more than five minutes. And what is the result? Those interested stand in line to visit several times.

Secrets of the Arean Religion

The secrets of the Arian religion are kept by the Church of San Vitale in Ravenna. And this is the only city on Earth in which you can see Christ in the form of a warrior or a teenager. Even in the early Christian period, the Arian branch of Orthodox movements was declared heretical. But in the artistic and historical works of the “capital of mosaics” evidence of Arianism was preserved.

Thus, the Arians believed that Christ was baptized as a teenager. And this fact is reflected in the plot on the dome of the cathedral. Meticulous tourists are also surprised by the “horned” figure nearby. But, according to the beliefs of the Arians, this is just the spirit of the Jordan River. The appearance of the cathedral is colorfully and objectively described by the poet:

A fabulous octagonal temple. The outside is scorched.
The relief of the buttresses rested against the stone of the Latin tombstones.
The sinful soul will be filled in the darkness with the joy of color.
Thousand-year-old smalt glows like a wonderful mosaic.

Material evidence of the Arians is the Mausoleum of Theodoric the Great. He was the king of the Arians. The Orthodox Church declared him a barbarian. But in popular memory, Theodoric remained the protector and patron of Ravenna. Theodoric's Mausoleum is a revered landmark of the city.

The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, like many other historical tombs, does not contain the remains of the one who gave it its name. But the Mausoleum of Theodoric the Great fully corresponds to its purpose. The ashes of the founder rest in it.

There is an interesting legend associated with this. According to legend, a fortune teller predicted the future ruler of Ravenna would die from lightning. Therefore, Theodoric had a special attitude towards this natural phenomenon. During the construction of the Mausoleum, a huge round monolith was used as a roof. And during a thunderstorm, it was in this room that the king of the barbarians hid. But powerful lightning still split the stone and killed Theodoric. Here he was buried in a dark red sarcophagus.

The Mausoleum of Theodoric, as well as the Arian Baptistery, are striking attractions of the city. The Arian Baptistery was made unique by the unsuccessful attempts of Orthodox Christians to destroy the signs of Arianism in its subjects. Thus, the teenage Christ on the dome mosaics was artificially “aged” to the required 30 years. But they left him naked, which is unusual for Orthodox subjects.

When Arianism was declared heretical at the famous Council of Nicaea in 561, they tried to rename the Arian Baptistery the Oratorio of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Alas, this artificial measure could not change the true status of the structure.

During World War II, the building was bombed, but despite its centuries of age, it survived. Unfortunately, many unique mosaics and sights were then irretrievably lost. Subsequently, the Arian Baptistery was restored. Many unique mosaic frescoes were brought back almost from oblivion.

Now the historical masterpiece adequately represents Ravenna as one of the most interesting cities in Italy.