Ravenna

Once the core of the mighty Roman Empire, and the cradle of the Renaissance, it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, including high art and monuments. Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine, it's trendy fashions, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its various sceneries from the seas to the Alps and Apennines, all reasons why it got nickcoded Il Bel Paese (the Beautiful Country). One of the great things about Italy is that its long thin shape means that when you get fed up with sightseeing you are often a relatively short distance from a beach. In many of the more popular areas, large sections of beach are reserved as paid beaches. Italy is full of differents cultures you can see: Etruscan Italy, The Greek influence, Roman ruins, Christian Italy, The Byzantine cities and The Renaissance.

Italy

It offers an astonishing diversity in recreational opportunities and cultural riches to discover. Not satisfied with being one of the cultural centres of Italy (many artists and scientists have lived here or drawn their inspiration from the region since the Renaissance), it has also become one of the most advanced parts of the country economically speaking, with its agrifood and automotive industries. The University of Bologna is well worth seeing for its architecture and dynamism; Parma's gastronomy will delight foodies; lovers of the Ferrari cars will definitely want to stop by the Ferrari museum in Maranello.

Emilia Romagna

## "I have never seen such magical mosaics in my life." That was my first thought while visiting Ravenna, a city in the region Emilia-Romagna of Italy.



Ravenna is an easy day trip from Bologna in the Emilia-Romagna region. From Bologna, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes on the train to reach Ravenna. The city is most famous for its colorful and elegant mosaic art. 

Five locations which have the best mosaics are **Archiepiscopal Museum** (Chapel of Sant’Andrea and the Ivory Throne), **Neonian Baptistery, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Basilica of San Vitale**, and **Mausoleum of Galla Placidia**. You can buy a ticket which is valid for all of these monuments for 7 days, and it costs 9.50 euros (reduced price: 8.50 euros). You can check for opening hours [here](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/?lang=en).

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Among those places, I was most impressed with the interior of **the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, **which felt like a magical world. UNESCO experts described it as “the earliest and best preserved of all mosaic monuments, and at the same time one of the most artistically perfect.” I was blown away by the sparkling and sacred beauty of this place.

To learn more about the mosaics in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, check out this engaging video from the Khan Academy:

Apart from the five main monuments, you still have time to visit **the tomb of Dante Alighieri **(yes, the renowned poet was buried in Ravenna), **Battistero degli Ariani** (a UNESCO-listed church with mosaics), and** Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra **(a Roman archaeological site full of mosaic decorations),** **all of** **which I highly recommend.

### Exploring the Byzantine Beauty: Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo in Classe

If you're a history and architecture enthusiast, a visit to the Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo in Classe is an absolute must. Located in Ravenna, Italy, this stunning Byzantine masterpiece holds great historical significance and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

### Historical Significance and Fun Facts

The Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo has a fascinating history that dates back to the 6th century. Originally built as a palace chapel for King Theodoric the Great, it was dedicated to "Christ the Redeemer" and served as an Arian church. However, in 561 AD, under the rule of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the church was reconsecrated and dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours.

Legend has it that Pope Gregory the Great ordered the mosaics in the church to be blackened, as their golden glory distracted worshipers from their prayers. This unique aspect adds an intriguing twist to the basilica's story.

In 856 AD, the basilica was renamed once again when relics of Saint Apollinaris were transferred from the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe due to frequent pirate raids. This is how it acquired its current name, Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo.

### Architectural Marvels

One of the most striking features of the Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo is its exquisite mosaics. These intricate artworks depict scenes from the life of Christ, as well as saints and biblical figures. The mosaics are beautifully preserved and offer a captivating glimpse into the art and religious beliefs of the time.

The basilica's exterior boasts a large facade with simple uprights and a mullioned window with three openings. The 9th-century round bell tower with mullioned windows adds to the architectural charm of the structure. Inside, the basilica follows a standard basilica design with a central nave and two side aisles. The 24 columns made of Italian marble are adorned with intricately carved capitals depicting acanthus leaves.

### Things to Do and See

A visit to the Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo is a journey back in time, allowing visitors to appreciate the rich history and artistic beauty of Ravenna. Take your time to admire the stunning mosaics that adorn the walls, arches, and apse of the basilica. Each mosaic tells a story and offers a unique insight into the religious and cultural traditions of the Byzantine era.

While in Ravenna, make sure to explore other nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. These architectural wonders further showcase the city's rich history and artistic heritage.

### Best Time to Visit

To fully enjoy your visit to the Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo, it is recommended to plan your trip during the spring or autumn months. The weather during these seasons is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are generally smaller, allowing for a more immersive and peaceful experience.

Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates architectural marvels, the Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo in Classe is a destination that should not be missed. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Byzantine art and explore the rich history of Ravenna.

Basilica of St. Apollinaire Nuovo Ravena

### Discover the Magnificence of the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna

Ravenna, a charming city in Italy, is home to a true masterpiece of early Christian Byzantine art and architecture - the Basilica of San Vitale. This stunning church, designated as a basilica by the Roman Catholic Church, is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts alike.

### A Unique Architectural Marvel

One of the most striking features of the Basilica of San Vitale is its unconventional architectural design. Unlike traditional basilicas, this sixth-century church boasts an octagonal shape with a central dome. This innovative design was groundbreaking for its time and continues to captivate visitors today.

### Breathtaking Mosaics

Step inside the basilica, and you'll be greeted by a breathtaking display of intricate mosaics. These mosaics depict scenes from the Bible, showcasing the skill and artistry of Byzantine craftsmen. One of the most famous mosaics portrays Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora, adding a touch of regal splendor to the church's interior.

### Historical Significance

The Basilica of San Vitale holds immense historical importance. It was constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian and served as a place of worship for the Byzantine community in Ravenna. This church witnessed centuries of history, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

### Nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While exploring the Basilica of San Vitale, take the opportunity to visit the other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Ravenna. The city is home to several stunning churches and mausoleums, each with its own unique mosaics and architectural features. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of this enchanting city.

### Fun Facts and Tips

- The construction of the Basilica of San Vitale was sponsored by Julius Argentarius, a local banker and architect who also supported the construction of the nearby Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe.
- The church's central vault utilized a unique technique of hollow tubes inserted into each other, a precursor to modern structural clay tile.
- The Basilica of San Vitale is famous for its Byzantine mosaics, which are considered the largest and best-preserved outside of Istanbul.
- Legend has it that the church was built on the site of the martyrdom of Saint Vitalis, although there is some confusion about which Saint Vitalis it refers to.

### When to Visit

To fully appreciate the beauty and historical significance of the Basilica of San Vitale, it is recommended to visit during the quieter months when there are fewer tourists. This allows for a more intimate and immersive experience, allowing visitors to truly absorb the magnificence of this ancient treasure.

In conclusion, the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna is a true gem that showcases the brilliance of early Christian Byzantine art and architecture. With its unique design, breathtaking mosaics, and historical significance, this basilica is a must-see for anyone visiting Ravenna. So, make sure to add it to your travel itinerary and prepare to be awe-inspired by its beauty.

Basilica of San Vitale

The Archiepiscopal Museum is located in Ravenna, Italy, next to the Baptistry of Neon and behind the Duomo of Ravenna. In the museum relics of early Christian Ravenna are preserved, including fragments of mosaic from the first cathedral church, and the chapel of Sant'Andrea, dating from the Gothic kingdom.

Museo Arcivescovile

### Exploring the Ancient Beauty of Battistero Neoniano in Ravenna

Ravenna, a charming city in northeastern Italy, is home to a treasure trove of ancient monuments. Among these architectural gems is the Baptistery of Neon, also known as Battistero Neoniano. This religious building, dating back to the late Western Roman Empire, is not only the oldest surviving monument in Ravenna but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let's dive into the captivating history and architectural features of this remarkable structure.

### A Glimpse into History

The Baptistery of Neon was constructed during the late 4th or early 5th century by Bishop Ursus, as part of his grand Basilica. It was later completed by Bishop Neon at the end of the 5th century, who added the stunning mosaic decorations that still adorn the interior. The baptistery was built on the site of a Roman bath, adding to its historical significance.

### Architectural Marvels

As you approach the Baptistery of Neon, you'll be captivated by its octagonal shape, a common design employed in Early Christian baptisteries. This shape symbolizes the seven days of the week, along with the Day of Resurrection and Eternal Life. The exterior of the baptistery features a simple brick facade, with four additional apses added in the 10th century.

### Mesmerizing Mosaics

Step inside the baptistery, and you'll be greeted by a breathtaking mosaic ceiling. The centerpiece depicts John the Baptist baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River, with Zeus personifying the river. The mosaic beautifully captures the fluidity of the human figure, derived from Greco-Roman art. Surrounding the central mosaic, a procession of the twelve apostles unfolds, culminating in the meeting of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

### Fun Facts and Tips

- Did you know that the original floor of the Baptistery of Neon is now buried approximately three meters underground? This adds an air of mystery to the structure, as its true extent and layout can no longer be fully seen.
- The Baptistery of Neon is often referred to as the Orthodox Baptistery to distinguish it from the Arian Baptistery, which was built later on the orders of Ostrogothic King Theodoric.
- When visiting Ravenna, make sure to explore the other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city, such as the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Basilica of San Vitale.

### When to Visit

The Baptistery of Neon is open to visitors throughout the year, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich history and architectural beauty. Consider visiting during the quieter months to fully appreciate the tranquility and intricate details of the mosaics.

As you explore the Baptistery of Neon in Ravenna, you'll be transported back in time to the early days of Christianity. This ancient structure stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and architectural prowess. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing mosaics and experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Battistero Neoniano

The Museo Arcivescovile di Ravenna, also known as the Archbishop's Museum of Ravenna, is a fascinating cultural gem located in the city of Ravenna, Italy. Founded in the 18th century, the museum has a rich history that is intertwined with the ancient Basilica Ursiana.

The museum's origins can be traced back to Archbishop Nicholas Doubleday, who initiated extensive renovations of the Ravenna Cathedral in the 1730s. During the construction, numerous marble slabs with carved inscriptions were unearthed. Recognizing the historical significance of these artifacts, the mathematician Domenico Vandelli persuaded Archbishop Farsetti to preserve them. This marked the beginning of the museum's collection.

Originally housed in the Archbishop's Palace hall, the museum was later reorganized and expanded in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, under the direction of Giuseppe Gerola, the museum underwent further redevelopment and expansion. Mons. Mario Mazzotti, a diocesan priest and archaeologist, also played a significant role in expanding the museum's collections in the 1950s and 60s.

After years of restoration, the Archbishop's Museum was reopened in 2010 with renovated rooms and enhanced collections. Today, visitors can explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts, including the marble slabs with inscriptions, as well as other stone materials of historical and archaeological importance.

The Museo Arcivescovile di Ravenna offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of Ravenna. From its origins in the ancient Basilica Ursiana to its present-day incarnation, the museum showcases the city's historical significance and architectural features. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about Ravenna's past, a visit to this captivating museum is a must.

Museo Arcivescovile di Ravenna

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Ravenna And Its Mosaic Masterpieces

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Born and raised in Hanoi, I strive to protect my Vietnamese identity while being a global citizen. Having lived in the UK, the US, Italy and visited more than 30 countries, I am now more eager than ever to re-explore my beautiful country Vietnam. It would be rewarding to discover new things about Vietnam through the perspectives of both a local and an outsider, as I used to live abroad for many years. One of my favorite quotes is “The most beautiful experience we can have is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion that stands at the cradle of true art and true science” (Albert Einstein). That’s why I travel to experience not only the beauty but also the mysteries of the world. Let me share with you some of the mysteries of Vietnam, which might make you decide Vietnam is your next destination to discover.

Ravenna And Its Mosaic Masterpieces

"I have never seen such magical mosaics in my life." That was my first thought while visiting Ravenna, a city in the region Emilia-Romagna of Italy.

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