Ravenna, a captivating Italian city, boasts a rich tapestry of early Christian and Byzantine mosaics that have enchanted visitors for centuries. Discover these stunning artworks on a guided tour through the city’s iconic landmarks, where you’ll uncover the stories and significance behind each intricate design. From the grandeur of the Church of S. Vitale to the serene Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, these sites offer a glimpse into Ravenna’s cultural legacy. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate the beauty of ancient craftsmanship, this tour promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to delve deeper into the mosaic-filled wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Points
- Guided walking tour through Ravenna’s historic city center to witness early Christian and Byzantine mosaics from the 5th-6th centuries.
- Visit the Church of S. Vitale, commissioned by Emperor Justinian, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Empress of the Western Roman Empire.
- Admire the mosaics of the Neoniano Baptistery and Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo.
- Tour available in English and Italian, with flexible booking options and wheelchair accessibility.
- Additional fees of €2 for accessing the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and €2 per person for headsets (groups up to 10).
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Details
The tour price starts from €160.00 per group up to 20 people, with flexible booking options allowing you to reserve now and pay later.
The tour lasts 2.5 hours and is available in both English and Italian, catering to a wide range of visitors.
Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
This guided walking tour provides an immersive experience, taking you through the old city of Ravenna to witness the stunning early Christian and Byzantine mosaics from the 5th and 6th centuries.
From the Church of S. Vitale to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, you’ll be captivated by the intricate and vibrant mosaics that have stood the test of time.
Highlights
A guided walking tour through Ravenna’s old city allows visitors to witness the stunning early Christian and Byzantine mosaics from the 5th and 6th centuries.
The tour takes guests to the Church of S. Vitale, commissioned by Emperor Justinian, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Empress of the Western Roman Empire.
Visitors will also admire the mosaics of the Neoniano Baptistery near the ancient cathedral and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, which houses the tomb of the exiled poet Dante.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to take in Ravenna’s rich history and appreciate the remarkable artistry of these well-preserved mosaics.
Inclusions
The guided walking tour includes a local, licensed guide to escort visitors through Ravenna’s old city and provide insights into the stunning early Christian and Byzantine mosaics.
It also covers the entrance fees to the key sites, such as the Church of S. Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
However, there’s an additional fee of €2 for accessing the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
The tour doesn’t include personal expenses, private transportation, or headsets, which are available for an extra €2 per person for groups of up to 10 people.
Exclusions
Beyond the inclusions, the tour doesn’t cover personal expenses, private transportation, or headsets, which can be added for an extra €2 per person for groups of up to 10 people.
So if you want to use your own headset or prefer to get around by taxi instead of walking, you’ll need to cover those costs separately.
The tour focuses on providing a comprehensive guided experience through Ravenna’s stunning mosaics, without nickel-and-diming you for every little add-on.
Just be aware of what’s included and what’s not, so you can budget accordingly and make the most of your time exploring this fascinating slice of Roman and Byzantine history.
Meeting Point
The meeting point for the Ravenna Mosaics tour is located at the Basilica San Vitale Ticket Office, situated on Via Giuliano Argentario 22.
Guests will convene at this central location to begin their guided exploration of Ravenna’s stunning early Christian and Byzantine mosaics.
This meeting point offers several advantages:
- Convenient accessibility, as it’s located in the heart of the historic city center
- Easy to find, with the iconic Basilica San Vitale serving as a prominent landmark
- Close proximity to the tour’s main attractions, minimizing walking time
- A welcoming starting point to set the tone for an immersive, enriching experience
From this meeting place, the guided tour will embark on a fascinating journey through Ravenna’s remarkable mosaic heritage.
Guided Tour
Visitors on the Ravenna Mosaics guided tour will explore the city’s captivating early Christian and Byzantine mosaics dating back to the 5th-6th centuries.
The 2.5-hour walking tour takes guests through Ravenna’s historic old town, showcasing iconic sites like the Church of S. Vitale, commissioned by Emperor Justinian, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, former Empress of the Western Roman Empire.
Along the way, they’ll admire the dazzling mosaics of the Neoniano Baptistery and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, where the exiled poet Dante is buried.
With a licensed local guide leading the way, travelers will come away with a deeper appreciation for Ravenna’s exceptional Byzantine heritage and UNESCO-listed wonders.
Roman and Byzantine Mosaics
Ravenna’s captivating Roman and Byzantine mosaics date back to the 5th and 6th centuries, showcasing the city’s exceptional Byzantine heritage and UNESCO-listed wonders. These intricate artworks can be found decorating the interiors of churches and mausoleums, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural significance.
The highlights include:
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The shimmering mosaics of the Church of St. Vitale, commissioned by Emperor Justinian
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The serene Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, with its symbolic imagery
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The striking mosaics of the Neoniano Baptistery near the ancient cathedral
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The stunning basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, home to the exiled poet Dante’s tomb
Ravenna’s mosaic masterpieces provide a captivating window into the past, inviting visitors to enjoy the splendor of the region’s remarkable artistic legacy.
Flexible Booking
Conveniently, visitors can reserve their guided tour in Ravenna now and pay later, providing a flexible booking option.
This allows travelers to secure their spot on the tour without the need to pay upfront. It’s a great feature for those who want to plan their trip in advance but may not be ready to commit financially right away.
The tour operator offers this flexibility, so visitors can focus on arranging the rest of their Ravenna itinerary with peace of mind.
Whether you’re still finalizing your travel plans or simply prefer to pay closer to your travel dates, the flexible booking gives you the convenience you need to experience Ravenna’s stunning Roman and Byzantine mosaics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can take photos during the tour. Photography is generally allowed in the churches and historical sites visited, providing it doesn’t disrupt the guide’s commentary or other visitors’ experience. Check with the guide for any specific restrictions.
How Do I Get to the Meeting Point?
You can reach the meeting point, the Basilica San Vitale Ticket Office on Via Giuliano Argentario 22, by public transportation or private taxi. The tour guide will be waiting there to greet you and start the guided walk through Ravenna.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for this tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking through the historic city of Ravenna.
Is There a Bathroom Break During the Tour?
There is no specific bathroom break scheduled during the tour. However, the guide will likely accommodate any restroom needs throughout the 2.5-hour duration, as they aim to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for all participants.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Headset?
You don’t need to bring your own headset. The tour includes an optional audio headset for an additional fee of €2 per person, up to 10 people. This allows you to better hear the guide’s commentary during the walking tour.
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Recap
Ravenna’s mosaic-filled history comes alive on this guided tour.
Explore the city’s early Christian and Byzantine heritage, marveling at the stunning mosaics that adorn iconic landmarks like the Church of S. Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
With flexible booking options and language choices, this tour offers an immersive experience to uncover Ravenna’s rich cultural and artistic legacy, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
