Golden Mosaics Trail
Self-Guided TourEmbark on a visually staggering journey through the pinnacle of early Christian and Byzantine art. This tour connects the most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites located within the historic centre. You will witness the evolution of mosaic artistry, moving from the rich, starry blues of the fifth century to the dazzling, imperial gold of the sixth century. It is a profound exploration of how light, glass, and faith were woven together to create eternal masterpieces.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
This is the definitive reason people travel across the globe to visit. The sheer scale, preservation, and luminous beauty of these artworks simply cannot be comprehended through photographs.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- • A single combined ticket grants access to most of these sites; buy it online to save time.
- • The lighting inside the monuments is carefully controlled, so let your eyes adjust for a minute upon entering.
- 1UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
New Basilica of Saint Apollinaris
BASILICA DI SANT'APOLLINARE NUOVOOriginally built as a palatine chapel by an Ostrogothic king, its immense nave is flanked by astonishing continuous processions of martyrs and virgins rendered in shimmering glass.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 505, making it 1521 years old
- Annual Visitors
- 415,000 (2022)
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National HeritagePart Of Unesco World Heritage Site
- Architectural Styles
- ByzantineEarly Christian
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 2UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
Galla Placidia Mausoleum
MAUSOLEO DI GALLA PLACIDIAA tiny, unassuming brick structure that conceals some of the oldest and most perfectly preserved mosaics in the city. The deep indigo vaulted ceiling covered in golden stars is an unforgettable sight.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Annual Visitors
- 124,000 (2020)
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National HeritagePart Of Unesco World Heritage Site
- Architectural Styles
- ByzantineEarly Christian
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 3UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
Basilica of San Vitale
BASILICA DI SAN VITALEAn architectural marvel of octagonal design, famous for its sweeping, majestic mosaics depicting Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora. It is the absolute pinnacle of Byzantine art in Western Europe.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 550, making it 1476 years old
- Annual Visitors
- 124,000 (2020)
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National HeritagePart Of Unesco World Heritage Site
- Architectural Styles
- Byzantine
WEB & AMENITIES
to next stop - 4UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
Orthodox Baptistery
BATTISTERO NEONIANOThe oldest monument in the city, an octagonal building adorned with incredibly vibrant and detailed stucco and mosaic work. The central dome piece depicting the baptism of Christ is exceptionally vivid.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 401, making it 1625 years old
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- Italian National HeritagePart Of Unesco World Heritage Site
- Architectural Styles
- Early Christian
WEB & AMENITIES
Other Self-Guided Tours
Check out other routes in Ravenna
In the Footsteps of Dante
Trace the final years of the Supreme Poet, who found refuge and inspiration here after his painful exile from Florence. This walk visits the places deeply connected to his life, death, and enduring legacy in the city. You will see where his remains were fiercely protected from Florentine grasp and where his memory is honoured daily. It is a highly evocative journey through literary history and local pride.
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Empires of the Dark Ages
Discover the contrasting legacies of the two great powers that ruled the city after the fall of Rome. This tour highlights the architectural differences between the Arian Ostrogoths and the Orthodox Byzantines. You will explore monumental structures that tell the story of theological conflicts, military conquests, and the clash of civilisations. It is a fascinating dive into a complex, often misunderstood era of European history.
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Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Heart of the City Walk
Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of the pedestrianised old town. This stroll takes you past elegant boutiques, lively cafes, and monumental brick architecture dating back centuries. The flat, impeccably paved streets make walking effortless, allowing you to focus entirely on the charming details and atmosphere. It is a wonderful way to feel the sophisticated yet unhurried pulse of local life.
Classe Pine Forest Trail
Venture south of the city to explore the legendary pine forest that was praised in the writings of Boccaccio and Dante. The dirt and gravel trails wind through towering umbrella pines, offering a cool, shaded environment perfect for cycling. You will pass through areas of rich biodiversity, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature. It is an immersive journey into one of the region's most celebrated landscapes.