Basilica San Vitale
the exterior of the Basilica
The sombre appearance of the exterior of the Basilica gives no clue to the dazzling brilliance of inside. The building is immense, and the height of the dome was the first thing that amazed us. The fact that it is also filled with beautiful mosiacs seemed almost secondary, until we got closer. When you realise that the building was consecrated in 548 ad, it becomes even more incredible.
inside the dome
amazing construction
looking up
at the top of the dome
this place is huge
The mosiacs include scenes from the Old Testament. Inside the chancel, the finest mosiacs of the series depict the Byzantine Emperor Justinian with San Massimiano and Empress Theodora It would be easy to spend hours in here trying to take it all in. Unfortunately photos don’t do the Basilica justice. It is hard to get a sense of the size and the mosiacs are quite high up. I would have loved to climb up a long ladder to get closer.
Empress Theodora - thousands of multicoloured tiny glass cubes interspersed with mother of pearl
incredible mosiacs
a bit closer
the beautiful floor
lovely arches
detail at the top of the column
detail of Christ on an arch
Empress Theodora and friends
Emperor Justinian
Theodora- ex circus performer
Justinian
detail of mosiacs
Wow! Definitely on my next visit list!
By: Mary D on April 19, 2010
at 7:39 am
Isn’t it amazing! I had heard that the mosiacs in Ravenna were spectacular, but i really had no idea what to expect. I will be returning again and again.
Deb
By: bagnidilucca on April 19, 2010
at 10:24 am
Stunning Deb. I wish…..
By: Pam Bol on April 19, 2010
at 10:58 am
Beautiful pictures!!!!
By: rosi on April 19, 2010
at 5:29 pm
I’m amazed by the mosaics, Deb, so, can imagine how much better would be to see the real thing. Hard to believe that San Vitale was constructed in the 6th century! It’ll be interesting to find out how this place was built, and how long it took to construct it. Even though you say your photos don’t do justice, you’ve certainly captured the aesthetics of the place, the light, space and colour. Do you think Ravebba presents the best display of mosaics in Italy? On our next Italian visit, Ravenna will definitely be on our “wish list”!
By: Sandra Hoopmann on April 20, 2010
at 6:33 am
These mosiacs are definitely the best I have seen. It is unbelievable that they are in such good condition after all this time.
By: bagnidilucca on April 22, 2010
at 8:21 pm
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at 12:33 pm
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at 10:27 am