Best of RAVENNA on a Private Tour

Join me on an unforgettable journey through Ravenna, where I’ll guide you to 4 stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each adorned with dazzling mosaics dating back to the dawn of Christianity. Step into the heart of Ravenna’s Christian and Byzantine heritage, brought to life through expert storytelling by a local specialist. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna played a pivotal role in Late Antique Europe and is home to some of the most extraordinary art and architecture of the period. My credentials: * Board certified tour guide and tour leader * Master's in Sacred Art * Degree in Preservation of Cultural Heritage * Accredited by the Diocese of Ravenna for the “Art and Faith Itineraries”, after successfully completing a specialized training program promoted by the Archdiocese of Ravenna-Cervia in collaboration with the Pontifical Gregorian University. *Please note: Monuments admission fees are NOT included.

1. 1

   Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo

   30 min

   The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is a 6th-century church renowned for its exceptional early Christian mosaics. Built by Theodoric the Great, it features stunning depictions of biblical scenes and saints, blending Roman and Byzantine art styles. The basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. 2

   Dante's Tomb

   20 min

   The Tomb of Dante is the final resting place of the illustrious poet Dante Alighieri, author of The Divine Comedy. Exiled from his native Florence, Dante died in Ravenna in 1321. The tomb is a small neoclassical structure designed by architect Camillo Morigia in 1780.

3. 3

   Battistero Neoniano (Battistero degli Ortodossi)

   10 min

   The Neonian Baptistery is an early 5th-century octagonal building renowned for its exquisite early Christian mosaics, particularly the dome depicting the baptism of Jesus. As one of the oldest monuments in the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it exemplifies the blend of classical Roman architecture with emerging Christian art.

4. 4

   Mausoleo di Galla Placidia

   15 min

   The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a 5th-century building famous for its stunning early Christian mosaics. Despite its name, it likely served as a chapel rather than a tomb for Empress Galla Placidia. The small, cross-shaped structure features richly decorated interiors with mosaics of starry skies and Christian symbols, blending Roman and Byzantine artistic styles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of early Christian art.

5. 5

   Basilica di San Vitale

   30 min

   The Basilica of San Vitale is a 6th-century church famed for its exceptional Byzantine mosaics. Its unique octagonal design and richly decorated interior, featuring mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of early Christian art and architecture.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.