Ravenna, with its early Christian monuments, offers a perfect blend of art, culture and entertainment

The history of Ravenna is linked to the splendour of the Western Roman Empire, of which it was the capital on three occasions, starting from the early 5th century AD during the reign of Emperor Honorius, then during the Gothic kingdom of Theodoric the Great, and later under Byzantine rule. Thanks to this period of splendour, Ravenna boasts eight monuments that have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Ravenna’s prestige has never waned over the centuries. A key period was when the city was ruled by the lordship of Guido da Polenta, from 1275. He was responsible for the most significant land reclamation works, the expansion of the city, and the arrival of Dante Alighieri in the final years of his life. In 1512, Ravenna was the scene of a bloody battle against French troops. After coming under papal rule, Ravenna became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.

The city of Ravenna offers a perfect blend of art and culture, with a collection of early Christian religious monuments of extraordinary historical and artistic importance, which earned it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1996. There are unmissable places in every corner of Ravenna, but we would like to suggest what to see without overlooking the most important monuments.

The Basilica of San Vitale is one of the most important examples of early Christian and Byzantine art in Italy and throughout the world. It was built during the reign of Justinian to testify to the greatness of his empire. Don’t miss the magnificent mosaics that cover the dome.

A stone’s throw away, you will find the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, built in 402 by the Emperor Honorius in honour of his sister Galla Placidia. Don’t be fooled by its simple and modest exterior: the interior is a treasure trove to be discovered, featuring the oldest Byzantine-inspired mosaics in Ravenna.

Two UNESCO World Heritage basilicas are dedicated to Sant’Apollinare, the founder of the Church of Ravenna. The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, located in the heart of the historic centre, was built as a place of Arian worship by King Theodoric, but was rededicated to Catholic worship in the time of Justinian. Inside, there is the largest mosaic cycle known to date. At the city gates stands the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, the largest example of an early Christian basilica in the world. It was built in the 5th century to house the remains of Apollinaris and still preserves the beauty of its original structure, with magnificent polychrome mosaics.

The Mausoleum of Theoderic, located in the park of the same name near Ravenna station, was built in 520 by King Theoderic as his own tomb. It is the most famous and important Ostrogothic funerary structure in Italy. It comprises two decagonal levels surmounted by a large monolithic dome. If you want to be amazed, visit the Neonian Baptistery, one of the oldest monuments in Ravenna and the best-preserved baptismal building in the world, and the Arian Baptistery, the only baptistery dedicated to the Arian faith that has survived to the present day.

There is never a shortage of things to do in Ravenna. The Ravenna City Art Museum is the perfect place for art lovers. In addition to the collection of ancient and modern art, which includes over three hundred works, including paintings and sculptures, the museum also hosts exhibitions and temporary displays. The museum is located within the Loggetta Lombardesca complex, overlooking the public gardens, which offer a peaceful place to relax. The gardens also house the Planetarium, a small window onto the universe in the heart of the city.

Visitors to Ravenna should know that the great poet Dante Alighieri is buried in the city. Dante’s tomb is a small Neoclassical shrine housed in the Basilica of San Francesco, behind Piazza Caduti della Libertà. The visit takes just a few minutes, but we recommend that you don’t miss the apse of the basilica, which is heptagonal on the outside and semicircular on the inside, the 10th-century crypt, and the Dante Museum.

Ravenna is also a city of fun and relaxation. In addition to a few hours at the sea on the beautiful coastline, you should plan a day at Mirabilandia, one of the largest and most popular amusement parks in Italy. The park covers over 850,000 square metres and is packed with attractions for the whole family and for those in search of an adrenaline rush. Not to be missed are the Rio Bravo, the Katun and the large Eurowheel Ferris wheel.

Ravenna’s culinary tradition brings to the table delicious soups, rustic desserts and street food perfect for a snack while strolling between a monument and a museum.

• Everyone agrees on the crescione romagnolo. It is a cross between a piadina and a calzone, traditionally filled with herbs, tomato and mozzarella. Try it in the version with pumpkin and potatoes.
• Among the first courses, you simply must try cappelletti al ragù, filled with cheese, which are also excellent in a broth. Traditionally served on festive occasions, but found on the menus of all Ravenna’s restaurants, passatelli are served in a meat or fish stock and are made with eggs, cheese, breadcrumbs and a pinch of nutmeg. Your taste buds will thank you!
• Braciola di castrato is a speciality grilled cut of mutton served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon to enhance its flavour.
• Round off your meal on a sweet note with piadina with squacquerone cheese and caramelised figs: you’ll never want to go without it again.