Italy · City Guide
Ravenna
Ravenna is one of the most historically significant and artistically extraordinary cities in Italy, the last capital of the Western Roman Empire and home to the finest collection of early Christian and Byzantine mosaics in the world, eight UNESCO World Heritage monuments of breathtaking beauty. From the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Basilica di San Vitale to the tomb of Dante and the beautiful pine forests of the Adriatic coast, Ravenna offers an Italian experience of profound cultural depth.
Elect's take
"Ravenna is the Italian city that most surprised me. The mosaics are simply unlike anything else I have seen anywhere in the world and the combination of extraordinary historical significance, beautiful architecture and the relaxed character of the city creates something genuinely moving."
The early Christian mosaics of Ravenna represent the greatest achievement of this art form anywhere in the world. The Basilica di San Vitale, with its extraordinary 6th century Byzantine mosaics depicting Empress Theodora and Emperor Justinian, is one of the most beautiful interiors in Europe. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia creates an experience of golden and blue light that is simply extraordinary. Together eight monuments form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tomb of Dante Alighieri, who died in Ravenna in 1321, is here. The pine forests of the Adriatic coast 10 kilometres away provide beautiful walking.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Byzantine Mosaics
The finest collection of early Christian and Byzantine mosaics in the world.
Basilica di San Vitale
One of the most beautiful interiors in Europe with extraordinary 6th century mosaics.
Tomb of Dante
The burial place of Italy's greatest poet who died in Ravenna in 1321.
UNESCO Heritage
Eight early Christian monuments forming a UNESCO World Heritage Site of exceptional significance.
Pine Forests
Beautiful Adriatic pine forests 10 kilometres from the city celebrated by Byron.
Roman Capital
The last capital of the Western Roman Empire with extraordinary historical significance.
