Ravenna Mosaic Tour with Free Walking Tour Italia
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking at a moderate pace with periodic stops indoors.
Overview
Discover Ravenna’s stunning Byzantine mosaics on a guided three-hour cultural tour led by Free Walking Tour Italia. Wander historic landmarks like San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia while uncovering stories behind some of the world’s finest early Christian art.
Ravenna Mosaics Tour
All ages • 3 hours • Tour of Ravenna Mosaics • Tour in English, Italian, German and French
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About This Adventure
Embark on the "Mosaic Tesserae" tour in Ravenna and uncover the breathtaking beauty of Byzantine mosaics. Led by an expert guide, explore iconic sites like the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Immerse yourself in art, history, and captivating stories that bring Ravenna's rich heritage to life.
Duration
3h
About
Discover the timeless charm of Ravenna's mosaics with our guided tour "Mosaic Tesserae". This tour will take you on a fascinating journey through the city's artistic masterpieces, allowing you to closely admire the extraordinary beauty and complexity of the Byzantine mosaics that have made Ravenna famous worldwide.
This tour is a unique opportunity to explore Ravenna's artistic heritage through the eyes of an expert guide who will share anecdotes and curiosities, making each visit an unforgettable experience. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history student, or simply a curious traveler, "Mosaic Tesserae" is the perfect way to discover the artistic and cultural heart of Ravenna.
Book now and get ready to be enchanted by the magic of Ravenna's mosaics!
More Info
Tour Itinerary:
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Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo: where you can see an extraordinary sequence of mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the martyrs. Each image is an open window onto the spirituality and culture of the Byzantine era.
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Basilica of San Vitale: a sublime example of early Christian art. Its mosaics, including the famous depictions of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, will leave you breathless with their majesty and detail.
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Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: where you can admire celestial mosaics that glitter with deep blue and angelic figures that seem to come to life. This little gem is an oasis of peace and beauty, perfect for immersing yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the past.
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Neonian Baptistery: one of the city's oldest monuments. Its mosaics tell biblical stories with extraordinary vividness and chromatic precision, testifying to the skill of Ravenna's master mosaicists.
Finally, at the end of the tour, the guide will accompany you to the entrance of the Archbishop's Museum. Here you can continue the visit independently, exploring according to your interests and at your own pace. The museum houses a rich collection of archaeological finds and works of art, offering a fascinating journey through time. Inside the museum is also the Chapel of Sant'Andrea, the last of the five UNESCO monuments included in the ticket.
The price includes:
- cumulative entrance ticket to the monuments included in the tour
- radio guides with jack connection for earphones
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers multiple historic sites with a fair amount of walking on cobbled streets and inside ancient buildings.
Bring a portable audio device
Radio guides with jack connections are provided, but bringing your own headphones ensures a better experience.
Check monument opening hours
While the tour tickets include entries, some sites may have limited access times—confirm season-specific schedules beforehand.
Dress for indoor conditions
Historic sites can have cooler temperatures even during summer; layer your clothing accordingly for comfort.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban birds such as swallows
- Squirrels in nearby green spaces
History
Ravenna was the last Western capital of the Roman Empire and a center for Byzantine art in Italy, bridging East and West in early medieval Europe.
Conservation
Many mosaic sites in Ravenna are preserved carefully with ongoing restoration efforts to maintain their vibrant colors and structural integrity for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bologna
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Navigate cobblestone streets and church interiors with ease.
Light jacket or layers
Adjust to indoor and outdoor temperatures especially in cooler months.
fall|spring|winter specific
Portable headphones
Connect to provided radio guides for clear audio during the tour.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor walking segments in warmer conditions.
summer specific