No less than eight buildings here in Ravenna, in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, are included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The city reached its peak under Byzantine emperor Justinian, when the city reigned as the western capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today’s walking tour encompasses several of the remarkable edifices, noted for their exquisite mosaics.

Transfer from the pier to the site of the ancient port, then known as Classe. Your first stop is at the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare, consecrated in 549. The handsome church is noted for its distinctive round campanile (870–878), and the earliest example of decorative majolica in Italy. Explore the interior with your guide, taking particular note of the semi-circular apse, the “butterfly” capitals atop the marble arches and the four life-size portraits of Ravenna’s bishops.

Next, drive from Classe to the heart of Ravenna, just 15 minutes away. Leave the coach at Piazza Baracca and begin your walking tour. Discover two of Ravenna’s finest gems, the intimate Mausoleum of Galla Placida and the sophisticated Basilica di San Vitale. The landmark octagonal basilica was the prototype for the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople; its brilliant mosaics are not to be missed. Just across the courtyard stands the mausoleum, built in the shape of a Greek cross. Softly lit by natural light, its mosaics are considered by many to be the finest in Ravenna.

Walk about 20 minutes further through the appealing old city centre, pausing in the Venetian-influenced Piazza del Popolo, the main square. Visit the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, consecrated in 561. The church features numerous mosaics created in several styles.

Continue your walk through the city to the coach staging area; the drive back to the pier is about 25 minutes.

PRICE:

$ 120 25-29 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.