Highlights of Ravennas Major Sites With Top Rated Guide for Kids

Ravenna, a captivating city in Italy, boasts a wealth of historical treasures waiting to be explored. With a top-rated guide tailored for kids, families can uncover the city’s Byzantine mosaics, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the legacy of Dante. This immersive experience promises to bring the past to life, captivating young minds with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and fascinating stories. Along the way, travelers can savor the local delicacy of piadina, ensuring a truly memorable and delicious adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a family-friendly outing, Ravenna’s highlights offer an enchanting journey through time.

Quick Points

• Explore Ravenna’s historic center with a guided tour, including visits to the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and Dante’s final resting place.
• Marvel at the exquisite Byzantine mosaics in the Basilica of San Vitale, showcasing the technical skill and artistic vision of the era.
• Discover the captivating mosaics and early Christian architecture at the intimate Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, appealing to families and children.
• Savor the local specialty piadina flatbread and traditional Ravenna cheeses, providing a well-rounded culinary experience.
• Enjoy a small group, personalized tour with a knowledgeable local guide, ensuring an in-depth exploration of Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed Byzantine mosaics and iconic sites.

Explore Ravenna’s Historic Center

What better way to start your Ravenna adventure than by exploring the historic city center?

With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll uncover the city’s rich history and architectural gems.

Wander through picturesque piazzas, marvel at the striking Byzantine mosaics adorning the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and visit the final resting place of the renowned poet Dante.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the techniques and significance of these renowned mosaics, providing a deeper appreciation for Ravenna’s cultural heritage.

This immersive experience sets the stage for the rest of your tour, leaving you eager to discover more of the city’s highlights.

Byzantine Mosaics in Basilica of Sant’Apollinare

The Byzantine mosaics adorning the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare captivate visitors with their stunning artistry and historical significance.

Commissioned in the 6th century, these mosaics depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. Executed with remarkable technical mastery, the mosaics showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of Byzantine artisans.

Visitors can marvel at the vivid colors, intricate patterns, and the serene expressions of the figures. The Basilica’s interior, with its soaring ceilings and ornate decorations, provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for these magnificent mosaics.

Exploring the basilica’s mosaic-adorned walls and aisles offers a unique glimpse into the artistic and religious traditions of Ravenna’s Byzantine era.

Mosaics in Basilica of San Vitale

Ravenna’s Basilica of San Vitale stands as another stunning showcase of Byzantine mosaics. Adorning the walls and ceilings, the intricate mosaics depict biblical scenes and religious figures in vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The basilica’s unique octagonal design, with its domed ceiling, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere for visitors.

• The mosaics in the apse feature stunning depictions of Christ flanked by Empress Theodora and Emperor Justinian, offering a glimpse into the power and grandeur of the Byzantine era.

• Scenes from the Old Testament, including the sacrifice of Isaac and the triumph of David over Goliath, are also masterfully rendered in the mosaics.

• The basilica’s stunning interior, with its marble columns and ornate decorations, further enhances the experience of viewing these remarkable works of art.

• Visitors can marvel at the technical skill and artistic vision that went into creating these timeless mosaics, which continue to captivate and inspire.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Nestled within Ravenna’s historic center, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia stands as a remarkable example of early Christian architecture and mosaic artistry.

Built in the 5th century, this small yet exquisite structure features captivating mosaics that adorn the interior walls and ceiling. The mosaics depict biblical scenes and Christian symbols, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era.

As the final resting place of the Roman empress Galla Placidia, the mausoleum offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Ravenna.

Its intimate scale and stunning visual elements make it a must-see for children and families exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.

Dante’s Tomb and Legacy

After exploring the captivating mosaics of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, families visiting Ravenna can venture to another renowned site – Dante’s Tomb.

As the final resting place of the celebrated Italian poet Dante Alighieri, Dante’s Tomb offers a glimpse into his enduring legacy.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the simple yet elegant marble monument that houses Dante’s remains.
• Learn about Dante’s exilic life and his influential literary work, "The Divine Comedy."
• Discover the significance of Ravenna as Dante’s chosen place of burial after his death in 1321.
• Reflect on the timeless impact of Dante’s writings and their continued relevance in contemporary culture.

Savor Local Piadina and Cheeses

Savoring the local piadina flatbread and artisanal cheeses is a quintessential part of the Ravenna tour experience.

Piadina, a regional specialty, is a thin, grilled flatbread that can be filled with a variety of toppings like prosciutto, cheese, and arugula. Guests will sample these delectable piadina creations and learn about the unique techniques and history behind this local delicacy.

The tour also includes tastings of traditional Ravenna cheeses, showcasing the rich flavors and textures that have been perfected over generations.

This culinary exploration enhances the overall understanding of Ravenna’s vibrant food culture and provides a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Small Group Intimate Experience

Exploring Ravenna’s treasures is best experienced in a small group setting, allowing for a more intimate and leisurely pace.

With a maximum of 14 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable local guide. This small group size enables ample opportunities to ask questions, interact with the guide, and take in the rich history and culture of the city.

The tour’s highlights include:

• In-depth exploration of UNESCO-listed Byzantine mosaics
• Insights into the techniques and significance of these artistic masterpieces
• Visits to iconic sites like Dante’s tomb
• Tastings of local specialties like piadina flatbread and traditional cheeses

This intimate tour format ensures a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ravenna’s renowned attractions.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The meeting point for the tour is Piazza Luigi Carlo Farini, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy. The guide will be waiting with a sign displaying the last name. The tour ends at Piazza del Popolo, P.za del Popolo, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy.

Meeting Point	Guide Sign	End Point
Piazza Luigi Carlo Farini, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy	Last name	Piazza del Popolo, P.za del Popolo, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy

The tour includes admission tickets and a small group size up to 14 people. Pricing starts from $293.71 and is subject to change based on group size. The tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are available for cancellations.

Since You Asked

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The small group size and leisurely pace make it suitable for families, and the guide can provide kid-friendly insights into the historic sights and local culture.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, as the guide can accommodate guests with mobility needs. Ravenna’s historic sites and museums have facilities and ramps to ensure all visitors can fully participate in the experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy – no refunds are provided for cancellations. Participants should review the policy carefully before booking.

Can I Purchase Additional Food/Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional food and drinks during the tour. The tour includes tastings of local specialties, but guests are free to explore and buy more at their own expense throughout the experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

You don’t need any special equipment for the Ravenna walking tour. The tour includes admission tickets, and you’ll explore the historic sites and see the famous Byzantine mosaics with a knowledgeable guide.

The Final Verdict

Ravenna’s magnificent Byzantine mosaics and historic sites come alive with a kid-friendly guide. From the stunning Basilica of Sant’Apollinare to the captivating Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the city’s treasures are explored in an engaging, educational way. Savor local delicacies like piadina, and enjoy an intimate small-group experience, making for an unforgettable family adventure in this enchanting Italian destination.