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Monuments

Basilica di San Vitale

The Basilica di San Vitale in Ravenna was commissioned by Julianus Argentarius and consecrated in 548 by Archbishop Maximian. It is considered one of the most important early Christian monuments in Italy, both for its history and for the beauty of its mosaics. What stands out is the space and the decoration: the height, the beautiful dome with Baroque frescoes, the decorated apse and the presbytery. The Basilica shows strong Eastern influence (as do other monuments in the city), although Western traditions are present too.

Good to know

  • The dome, which covers the entire octagonal floor plan, is supported by 8 pillars and numerous arches.
  • On one side of the presbytery floor, in front of the altar, a labyrinth is laid out; a series of arrows leads towards the centre of the Basilica.
  • The labyrinth on the floor was seen as a path of rebirth from sin: whoever managed to complete it was purified.
  • The ticket is a combined one and includes admission to: Basilica di San Vitale, Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Museo e Cappella Arcivescovile, Battistero Neoniano and Mausoleo di Galla Placidia (a €2 supplement applies to the latter from 1 March to 15 June). Free entry for children up to 10 years old.

More monuments in Ravenna

Basilica Sant’Apollinare NuovoThe Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo in Ravenna began as a palatine church, later converted to Orthodox worship. Its dedication to Sant'Apollinare dates from...Read more
Battistero degli ArianiThe Battistero degli Ariani was built in Ravenna in the 5th century, at the height of the Arian faith's adherence and of Theodoric's rule.Read more
Battistero NeonianoOctagonal in shape, the Battistero Neoniano has an interior arranged in two overlapping tiers of arches. Its decoration is sumptuous and elaborate, set out...Read more
Domus dei tappeti di pietraAn archaeological site that extends underground to a depth of 3 metres, the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra in Ravenna lies within the Chiesa di Sant'Eufemia and...Read more
Mausoleo di Galla PlacidiaA dome of the starry sky, with ceilings, walls, arches and lunettes entirely decorated with mosaics devoted to the theme of the victory of life over death.Read more
Mausoleo di TeodoricoThe Mausoleo di Teodorico in Ravenna was commissioned by Theodoric and built from 520 AD to serve as his burial place.Read more

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