Discovering Ravenna in two days

sant'apolinnare-in-classe

 Did you know that Ravenna was three times capital during the Western Roman Empire (402-476), during the reign of the Ostrogoths (493-553) and during the Byzantine Exarchate (568-751)? This meant that different styles and cultures diverged in one city, making it unique in the world.

ART WEEK-END PACKAGE:

This package includes accommodation as well as a visit to Ravenna’s Monuments (excluding the Basilica di Classe).

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Hotel Package: CLICCA QUI

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During the visit to the monuments at the old town, you may add a tasting menu with local products that can be enjoyed at Osteria Passatelli1962 tavern. The menu includes a cutting board consisting of meats, cheeses and flatbread, wine and water. Price per person: € 12,00. The tasting menu may be added during the online booking or simply by making a request directly to the Hotel.

What can you see for two days in Ravenna?

In 1996, UNESCO recognized 8 Early Christian monuments of the 5th and 6th century as world heritage:

  • Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: built in the fifth century by Empress Galla Placidia for herself, her husband and brother, will amaze you for the light emanating from its ceilings. It takes a starry sky and a flowered vault for you to fall in love!
  • The Baptistery of Neon (of the Orthodox): also built in the 5th century, it was the baptismal source of the Orthodox. Its simple brick exterior hides a colorful mosaic inside, which is divided into groups representing the baptism of Jesus and the twelve apostles.
  • The Arian Baptistery: it was built by Theodoric at the end of the fifth century, in order for the Arians and Orthodox to peacefully coexist. Once you enter, you will look around and see nothing special, but just try to look up: you will be enchanted!
  • The Archbishop’s Chapel: located within the present Archbishop’s Museum, it is characterized by a strong contrast between its marble and mosaics.
  • The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe: built in the sixth century and dedicated to the first bishop of Ravenna, Sant’Apollinare. From its façade you will not notice the true size of the Basilica and the brightness characterizing a bit all of Ravenna’s mosaics. Think it was the most visited monument of 2015 in Emilia Romagna, with more than 155,000 visitors!
  • The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo: born as an Arian church by will of King Theodoric in the year 505, it takes its name only in the 9th century when the ashes of Bishop Apollinare were transferred (from the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe), due to frequent pirate attacks. It later became property of the Catholic Church and many of its historic mosaics were covered by others. There are, however, parts that have not been changed, that only a keen eye can see! We will give you a clue: look very carefully at the band depicting Theodoric’s palace and you will notice that something is not right! Search and get lost in the color splendor of these mosaics.
  • The Basilica of San Vitale: this masterpiece of the early decades of the year 500 combines typical Roman architectures with Byzantine architecture. There is so much to talk about, but any word would be reductive; the only thing for you to do is to visit it!
  • Mausoleum of Theodoric: built in the early 500 AD and wanted by Theodoric as his future tomb. Made of white stone, it is enormous and with a large tub inside. It stands out from the other monuments of Ravenna for its simplicity. Look up and you will notice a single Aurisina stone dome… how it got there remains a mystery; what is certain is that you won’t regret visiting Ravenna!

Ravenna Antica and Porto di Classe:

The ancient Roman port of Classe shines once again! Come and visit it with our 3 € reduced-price ticket instead of 5 €! The partnership between Mosaico Hotel and Ravenna Antica Foundation allows you to visit the Domus of Stone Carpets, the Mosaic Museum (Tamo) as well as Rasponi Crypt and the Roof gardens! It is a unique opportunity for visiting jewels that are appreciated by everyone!

Tel: 0544.456665 Mail: info@hotelmosaico.it

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