Ravenna

Ravenna
Name	Ravenna
Coordinates	44, 25, 04, N...
Region	Emilia-Romagna
Province	Province of Ravenna
Area total km2	652.89
Population total	159,057
Population as of	2018

Ravenna. A city of profound historical and artistic significance in northeastern Italy, it served as a capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Ostrogothic Kingdom, and the Byzantine Empire in Italy. This legacy is preserved in an exceptional collection of Early Christian and Byzantine monuments, renowned for their stunning mosaics. Located near the Adriatic Sea in the Emilia-Romagna region, it is the capital of the Province of Ravenna and a major cultural and economic center.

History

The city's early importance grew from its strategic location within the Po Valley and its port at Classis, which became a key base for the Roman navy. In 402 AD, Emperor Honorius moved the capital of the Western Roman Empire here from Milan, a decision solidified by its defensible marshlands. Following the empire's fall, it became the seat of Odoacer and then the capital of the Ostrogothic Kingdom under Theoderic the Great, who commissioned major constructions. Reconquered by the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I during the Gothic War (535–554), it served as the seat of the Exarchate of Ravenna, the Byzantine governor of Italy. Later, it came under the influence of the Papal States, was briefly controlled by the Republic of Venice, and was integrated into the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city suffered damage during World War II, including the Battle of the Argenta Gap.

Geography

Situated in the northeastern part of the Emilia-Romagna region, the city's territory stretches from the inland plains to the Adriatic Sea coast. It is characterized by a flat landscape, part of the larger Po Valley, and is intersected by several canals and rivers, including the Montone and the Ronco. The coastline features the famous Pine Forest of Classe and the Po Delta regional park, areas of notable naturalistic value. The Comacchio Valleys, a large lagoon complex, are located to the north. The municipality includes the popular seaside resorts of Marina di Ravenna, Lido di Savio, and Cervia.

Main sights

The city is celebrated for its eight UNESCO World Heritage sites of Early Christian and Byzantine architecture. The Basilica of San Vitale is famed for its lavish mosaics depicting Emperor Justinian I and Empress Theodora. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, adjacent to the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, contains some of the oldest and most atmospheric mosaics. The Baptistry of Neon and the Arian Baptistry showcase distinct theological art. Other essential monuments include the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, the Archbishop's Chapel, and the Dante's Tomb of Dante, where the poet is interred. The Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra reveals exquisite Roman floor mosaics.

Culture

The city's cultural life is deeply intertwined with its artistic heritage, celebrated through institutions like the MAR - Ravenna Art Museum. It is a major center for the study of mosaic art, hosting the Accademia di Belle Arti di Ravenna. The annual Ravenna Festival attracts international performers in opera, classical music, and dance. The city honors its association with Dante Alighieri, author of the Divine Comedy, with events and scholarly activities centered on his tomb. Notable religious events include the procession of the Saint Apollinaris and the historical re-enactment of the Byzantine era. The Teatro Alighieri is a principal venue for theatrical and musical performances.

Economy

The local economy is historically linked to agriculture and port activities. The Port of Ravenna is one of the most important on the Adriatic Sea, handling cargo, containers, and passengers, and is crucial for the energy sector, with adjacent petrochemical plants. The coast supports a significant tourism industry centered around the beaches of the Lidi Ravennati. The interior is part of Italy's fertile agricultural heartland, known for fruit production, particularly pears and peaches. Industries include manufacturing, logistics, and a growing renewable energy sector. The presence of the University of Bologna campus also contributes to the economy.

Transport

The city is a key transport node, served by the A14 motorway and several state roads like the SS16 Adriatica. The Ravenna railway station offers connections on the Ferrara–Rimini railway line. The Port of Ravenna is a major maritime hub with regular ferry services to Greece and commercial freight operations. For air travel, the nearest international airports are Federico Fellini International Airport in Rimini and Guglielmo Marconi Airport in Bologna. Local public transport is managed by Start Romagna, providing urban and suburban bus services throughout the province.

Category:Cities and towns in Emilia-Romagna Category:Provincial capitals in Italy Category:World Heritage Sites in Italy