The city of Ravenna is located on the Adriatic coast in the Emilion-Romagan region. Although it location means Ravenna has developed into an important commercial port, there is still a lot of history and beauty to be found in the town, which is known as the “City of the Mosaic”.
One of the most famous of the city's mosaics can be found in the mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the exterior looks rather plain, the interior is anything but, with colourful mosaics covering the walls and floors and the high cupola painted to look like the night sky. The Neonian Baptistery is one of the oldest of Ravenna's monuments, built in the fifth century, and decorated with mosaics portraying religious scenes. The Arian Baptistery is home to a famous mosaic depicting Christ and the Twelve Apostles, which decorates the high cupola of the building. Older mosaics, dating from Roman times, can be seen at an archaeological site in the city, only discovered in the 1990s. All the rooms uncovered so far have floors that were decorated with intricate and colourful mosaic patterns and pictures. Inspired by the historical mosaics that fill the city, the Peace Park now features modern works on the subject of peace, created by artists from around the world.
Although the modern centre of Ravenna is now dominated by the large port, there are still some unspoilt stretches of coastline that visitors can enjoy and explore. Most of the beaches in this area are sand dunes, and some of the most unspoilt are found to the south of the city, heading towards the Lido di Dante and Lido di Classe. As well as being a great place to relax in the sun or enjoy an al fresco picnic, the area is home to some interesting species of plants and birds. One of the most intriguing tourist attractions is actually located offshore, 25 metres below the surface. In 1965 a drilling platform being used in the oil industry sank. Since that date, the platform has become an artificial reef for thousands of colourful species of plants other sea life. Experienced divers can explore the area, which has good visibility, and there are special tours arranged all year round.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Ravenna? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Ravenna and villas in Ravenna that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
