Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna

Byzantine Treasures

Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna preserves an unparalleled collection of Early Christian and Byzantine monuments. This selection highlights eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, famous for their vibrant 5th and 6th-century mosaics. Key landmarks include the Neonian and Arian Baptisteries, the monolithic Mausoleum of Theodoric, and the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe. From the intimate Archbishop’s Chapel to the flooded crypt of San Francesco, these sites showcase the transition from Roman to Byzantine artistic traditions.