Basilica of San Vitale

I have no words to say of how beautiful this place was. The Basilica of San Vitale is a sixth-century church located in Ravenna, Italy, known for its unique octagonal architecture and stunning Byzantine mosaics. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered a masterpiece of early Christian art and architecture.

If you visit only one site in Ravenna, make it the Basilica di San Vitale. While the exterior is a humble, unadorned octagonal structure of red brick, stepping inside offers one of the most profound artistic experiences in Italy. It is not just a church; it is a glittering time capsule from the 6th century that bridges the Roman and Byzantine worlds.

A pure masterpiece erected during the reign of Emperor Justinian. This basilica was begun by Bishop Ecclesius, under the Goths, after his return from Byzantium in 525. It was consecrated in 547 during the reign of Justinian by Archbishop Maximian, the city of Ravenna having been reconquered by the Byzantines in 540. While the exterior is austere, the interior is dazzling with its decorations: precious marbles, Byzantine capitals, and above all, magnificent mosaics. The mosaics belong to two different schools, even though they were created around the same time. The mosaics in the presbytery are in the Hellenistic-Roman tradition: the figures are depicted in a wide variety of poses. Those in the apse are Byzantine in style; all the figures are in a frontal, standing, static pose. Emperor Justinian promoted the use of mosaic art to rival Theodoric, the magnificent Visigothic emperor. He was the first emperor to systematically choose this method of decoration. It was a very expensive technique, requiring enormous expertise (marble, colored glass paste, gold leaf, preparing the tesserae). But it was also a sign of wealth, splendor, and luxury, highlighting the prestige of the patron.

San Vitale resolves structure and image into one coherent drama. The octagon holds a wide ambulatory with a second, raised gallery above it, so the building reads in concentric rings. Overhead a lightweight tube-built dome still claims eight sturdy columns, an honest frame for what follows. Marble revetment is book-matched and cool; above it the apse blooms with gold: Abraham’s hospitality opposite the sacrifices of Abel and Melchizedek, then Christ on a blue globe offering the crown to Saint Vitale while Bishop Ecclesius presents the church. Along the flanks, the imperial processions of Justinian and Theodora advance with quiet ceremony. The light is low, but it serves the purpose: tesserae catch and release a warm, shifting glow, so the theology seems to move as you do.

Absolutely beautiful. There was a wait wait for buying the tickets so definitely recommend buying the online. There was also a gift shop with all kinds of stuff from mosaic kits to socks, the prices were kinda high though. As for the inside, it was absolutely beautiful and it was pretty clear that it was an ancient basilica build by the Byzantinians. A part of it was also destroyed but now it has been rebuilt. There's lots of mosaics in the basilica so it's definitely worth it checking out. The ticket also give you access to another famous attractions (it can be 2 or 4 depending on what you want)

Basilica of San Vitale absolutely wowed me! The moment I stepped inside, I was surrounded by shimmering mosaics that feel alive, gold, emerald, and sapphire scenes glowing from every angle. The portraits of Justinian and Theodora are breathtaking up close, and the octagonal layout gives the whole space a serene, almost otherworldly vibe. If you love art, history, or just beautiful places, this is an unforgettable stop in Ravenna. Five sparkling stars from me!

An extremely beautiful and historic Basilica right in the heart of Ravenna. The mosaics are extremely beautiful and impressive, shows you the level of detail and craftsmanship that was put into this stunning work. Built nearly 1700 years ago, the building has not shown many signs of decay and is worth the ticket price to enter. It seems smaller from the outside, but the inside is incredibly large. Will visit again!

We were privileged to visit the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. It was for us a humbling experience knowing a little part of the cities history before, during and the after building of this magnificent building with its enduring mosaics.

Extraordinary basilica with the 6th century Byzantine Mosaic work. Vibrant colored mosaic tiles that has stood the test of time. The basilica is a protected site (UNESCO World Heritage status). Beautiful. One must buy a multiple site ticket at the ticket office close to the basilica in order to view inside. A must see and an easy day trip from Bologna in Emilia Romagna.

Ravenna is famous for the mosaics in the various churches in town. You can purchase a pass that allows you to visit a few places. We visited the Galla Placidia, San Vitale, Baptistero Neoniano, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. The mosaics are stunning! One of my favorites was the Baptistery with its round dome and 12 apostles with the baptism of Christ in the middle. The gold and blue colors of the tiles are striking. (first photo) Another favorite is the Sant'Apollinare Nuovo with its wood ceiling and arched columns. (second photo)

This 1400 year old church is a must see. This is a complex of buildings with two stops of interest you must see. The basilica itself with its dazzling mosaics and, across the yard, the small Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The basilica is covered with lavish mosaics: gold and glass chips the size of your fingernail. It's impressive enough to see a 1400 year old church. But it's rare to see one decorated in brilliant mosaics. Words are not enough to describe this master piece. If you are in Ravenna and then you must experience for yourself this amazing master piece.