Ravenna

Ravenna is best known for the wonderful mosaic decoration of its churches and tombs, relics from its Byzantine past which is located on the Adriatic midway between Venice and Florence. In particular, the mosaics at the Tomb of Galla Placida, the Church of San Vitale, the Baptistery and the Basilica of St. Apollinaris are among the most interesting in all of Europe. They are famous for their striking and varied colors, as well as for their symbolic meanings which Dante has mentioned them in his Divine Comedy. The city produces modern mosaic artists, at Ravenna's School of Mosaicists. Be sure to see Dante's tomb, located in the Church of San Francesco. The city honors the epic poet with a literary and theatrical festival in September. Don't miss the Ravenna- work it into any trip that includes nearby Bologna, Rimini, San Marino or Urbino. 70 mi/115 km south of Venice.