Ravenna, a city of around 160,000 inhabitants, is located in the Emilia-Romagna region and its location close to the Adriatic Sea makes it an important historical and cultural centre. Its rich history and monuments, especially the early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, make Ravenna a popular tourist destination. Yet it retains the peaceful atmosphere of a smaller Italian town.
Historical riches and mosaics
Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th and 6th centuries, later becoming the centre of the Byzantine Empire in Italy. This history is reflected in the city's architecture, which is particularly famous for its magnificent mosaics, which have been preserved in several important buildings. Eight of them, including the Basilica of San Vitale, are even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Basilica of San Vitale is a true gem of early Christian art. Its mosaics, depicting biblical scenes and figures, shine in vivid colours, allowing you to admire the detailed craftsmanship that has been preserved for over 1,400 years.
Other sights to visit include the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and the Mausoleum of Gally Placidia, which are also decorated with beautiful mosaics featuring early Christian motifs.
Dante Alighieri and his legacy
Ravenna is also the city where the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri, author of the "Divine Comedy," found his final resting place Dante spent the last years of his life in Ravenna after being expelled from Florence. His tomb, simple but reverent, is now a place of pilgrimage for literary enthusiasts from all over the world.
Every year in September, Ravenna hosts a festival in honour of Dante, when the city comes alive with cultural events, readings of his works and musical performances.
Natural beauty and tranquillity
But Ravenna is not just a city of history and art. It's also the gateway to the Parco del Delta del Po nature reserve, where you can discover extensive wetlands, lagoons and sand dunes. This area is a paradise for nature lovers and ornithologists who come here to observe the rich fauna, including rare bird species.
The proximity of the Adriatic Sea makes Ravenna an ideal place for those who want to combine a cultural holiday with relaxation on the beach. The popular resort of Marina di Ravenna, just a few kilometres from the city, offers beautiful beaches.
Modern Ravenna
Although Ravenna breathes history, it is also a vibrant city with a lively contemporary culture. The city hosts many festivals, exhibitions and theatrical performances that attract visitors from all over the world. The local markets and cafes are a great place to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and meet the friendly locals.
