Ravenna: Private Catholic Tour of City Highlights
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Overview
Sacred Ravenna Private City Highlights Tour with Catholic Guide offers a deeply personal exploration of Ravenna's spiritual and artistic treasures. This private walking tour, led by a knowledgeable Catholic guide, immerses visitors in the city's rich religious history and stunning Byzantine art.
Visitors will discover the awe-inspiring Basilica of San Vitale, famous for its vibrant mosaics depicting Christ, Emperor Justinian, and Empress Theodora. Just a short walk away is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a serene sanctuary adorned with breathtaking mosaics under a star-filled ceiling. The tour continues to the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, showcasing magnificent mosaic processions that offer a glimpse of heaven on earth. Also visitors will be able to see the Neonian Baptistery.
This tour includes entrance tickets and the undivided attention of an expert Catholic guide. Gratuities are not included. It's an unforgettable journey through Ravenna's most sacred sites.




Highlights
Expert Catholic Guide: Learn about Ravenna's rich religious history from a knowledgeable Catholic guide.
Private Walking Tour: Enjoy a personalized experience tailored to your interests and pace.
Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass the queues with included entrance tickets.
Iconic Byzantine Art: Witness the stunning mosaics of San Vitale, Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the tour, appreciating the knowledgeable guides and beautiful historical sites. Some wished for a longer duration or had concerns about entrance fees, but the overall experience was positive.

Customers loved learning a lot about the Catholic history and art.
Many people thought their tour guides were very kind and knew a lot about the places they visited.
Some customers thought it was really nice to have a private tour just for them.
Many customers thought the mosaics were beautiful and amazing.
A few customers said that they wanted the tour to be longer.
Some customers didn't like the tour because of entrance fees.
The Journey
Basilica of San Vitale
Step into a world of shimmering gold at the Basilica of San Vitale, Ravenna's Byzantine masterpiece. Consecrated in 547 AD, this architectural marvel transports you back to the 6th century. Be mesmerized by the radiant mosaics depicting Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, icons of Byzantine power and artistry. Lose yourself in the intricate details of the biblical scenes that adorn the walls. San Vitale isn't just a church; it's a breathtaking tapestry of faith and imperial grandeur, a must-see for anyone seeking the beauty of early Christian art.
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Discover a jewel of early Christian art at the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a serene sanctuary adorned with some of the world's most exquisite mosaics. Dating back to the 5th century, this intimate space invites quiet contemplation. Marvel at the starry night sky depicted on the dome, a symbol of eternal life. The deep blues and vibrant oranges of the mosaics create an atmosphere of ethereal beauty and timeless grace. Whether or not Galla Placidia herself rests here, the Mausoleum stands as a testament to her legacy and the enduring allure of early Christian art. Don't miss this unforgettable experience.
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Journey through time at the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a testament to Ravenna's rich history and artistic heritage. Built in the 6th century by Theodoric the Great, this basilica boasts magnificent mosaic cycles that narrate stories of faith and power. Witness the procession of virgins and martyrs, depicted in stunning detail, and immerse yourself in scenes from the life of Christ. Sant'Apollinare Nuovo offers a unique glimpse into the transition from Arian to Catholic worship, making it a vital landmark for understanding Ravenna's complex past. A visit here is a step back in time, an invitation to witness history unfold through art.
Neonian Baptistery
Immerse yourself in the spiritual and artistic splendor of the Neonian Baptistery, one of Ravenna's oldest and most captivating monuments. Commissioned by Bishop Neon in the 5th century, this octagonal baptistery is renowned for its stunning dome mosaic. Witness the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist, surrounded by the twelve apostles, a scene depicted with vibrant colors and meticulous detail. The octagonal shape symbolizes regeneration through baptism, adding to the baptistery's profound spiritual significance. Step inside and be transported to a world of faith, art, and history.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes an expert Catholic guide and entrance tickets to all sites. Gratuities are not included. This is a walking tour, so please wear comfortable shoes. This tour allows you to deeply explore the Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Neonian Baptistery.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Consider bringing a water bottle, especially during warmer months. Also, be sure to bring cash to tip your tour guide.