There may be no finer place for lovers of mosaics to visit than Ravenna. A sight will not get boring. The town’s ancient baptistries and basilicas highlight the absolute most startling mosaic work focused on early Christianity.

In those days, in the 5th and 6th centuries, Ravenna was at its level as the capital of the Byzantine realm. North and south along the close by Adriatic Coast, towns were succumbing to Brute extension. However, Ravenna plotted a successful course toward high workmanship and culture.

Today, the bulk of these impeccable manifestations stand before us. Be ready to extend your neck up to kaleidoscopic domes and down to sprawling, chromatic floors.

1. Basilica di San Vitale

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, and our #1 destination in Ravenna, one can’t miss the chance to explore the Basilica di San Vitale. The octagonal-shaped church boasts a startling central dome and, despite its simple facade, includes an incredible interior.

Spread across the walls and ceilings are beautiful Christian Byzantine craftsmanship, intricate mosaics, and frescoes that tell age-old stories. There’s no hole between each piece as they blend and flow along the church like a kaleidoscope.

2. Dante’s tomb

Close to the Basilica di San Francesco, Dante’s Tomb stands where his funeral occurred in the 1320s. The Florence-conceived writer and writer spent most of his life in Ravenna. In any case, despite this, there were no ensures he would peacefully rest along the street that currently bears his name.

Upon his death, Pope Leo X demanded his remains be transported back to his city of birth. Locals, who beloved Dante disagreed with this decision. Yet rather than take on the pope, they stole his remains and hid them someplace in Ravenna.

3. Basilica di San Francesco

Where other landmarks in Ravenna maintain their euphoric mysteries hidden, the Basilica di San Francesco stands out from far off. Its soaring Romanesque pinnacle, built in the 10th century, immediately commands your attention.

As you walk closer, you’ll catch a glimpse of the famed Dante’s Tomb (listed below). However, that doesn’t mean all is given away before you advance inside. Within you’ll get the opportunity to admire the sprawling frescoes painted by Pietro da Rimini in the 1300s.

4. Piazza del Popolo

There is spectacular architecture, ancient history, and dazzling mosaics here in Ravenna. Yet, to truly know her modern history and culture, you’ll need to spend your time enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of Piazza del Popolo.

This is the cultural epicenter of Ravenna. Where her citizens come to gather, celebrate, and rally for political change. You will not be surprised to hear that the square’s name translates to the People’s Square.

5. Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe

Around six kilometers (3.7 miles) south of Ravenna, the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe is well worth the excursion out of the Old Town. Built-in the 6th century, the timeline of this basilica is in line with a considerable lot of Ravenna’s prominent attractions.

In any case, from that period, Sant’Apollinare in Classe has probably the newest mosaics. Across the apse, these impeccable mosaic designs feature Head Constantine IV standing alongside cleric Reparatus. It is, truth be told, inspired by the one within the Basilica di San Vitale.

6. Museo Nazionale di Ravenna

Visiting each of the memorable cultural and historical monuments in Ravenna is critical to truly appreciate this amazing town. In any case, the Museo Nazionale di Ravenna helps integrate everything in a decent bundle.

The national museum is found within a previous Benedictine monastery. Before you even dive into the stories of other monuments, you’ll first need to check out the museum’s collection of ancient Byzantine and Christian relics.

7. Basilica di San Giovanni Evangelista

The original Basilica di Sam Giovanni Evangelista was built in the 5th century. It was older than most religious locales in Ravenna. Nonetheless, in the Second World War, the local train station was the site of a strategic bombing, most of which missed and destroyed much of this church.

It was faithfully restored in the years since, with several original parts, such as the interior columns, placed back where they belong. Incredibly, there are still a few mosaics, which date back to the early 13th century, that you can stare at in complete wonderment.