Ravenna: three capitals, mosaics and Adriatic landscape
Ravenna is the capital of the province of the same name in Emilia-Romagna and represents one of the most historically important cities in Romagna. Its vast municipal territory, the second largest in Italy after Rome, extends from the monumental center to nine beaches on the Adriatic coast.
History and identity
Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 to 476, of the Ostrogothic Kingdom from 493 to 540 and of the Byzantine Exarchate from 584 to 751. The testimonies of this past are collected in the serial site of the early Christian monuments of Ravenna, included in the UNESCO world heritage site since 1996.
What to see
The early Christian monuments constitute the main historical route of the city. The Candiano canal connects the centre, eight kilometers from the sea, to the port and the Adriatic. Nine beaches are distributed along the coast; to the north are the bodies of water of Punte Alberete and the San Vitale pine forest, while to the south extends the Classe pine forest.
Understand the place
Plan a visit to Ravenna to explore its ancient monuments, canals, and lido beaches. Verify current access to the canals and lido beaches before your trip, as they may be subject to seasonal restrictions.
Where to stay
A hotel in the center makes it easier to visit the early Christian monuments and urban heritage. For a sea-oriented stay, consider one of the Ravenna beaches; compare distance from the centre, connections, beach and parking before booking.
Prepare the visit
Times, access conditions and transportation may change. Before the trip, check the official pages linked from the source, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the homes free. Source in local language.