Basilica di San Vitale, Ravenna
During our trip to Italy, we took a day trip to Ravenna, which is not too far from the Adriatic coast. Ravenna was a prominent city in Roman times, and after the fall of Rome and a few changes in rulership, eventually came under the control of Justinian, emperor of the Byzantine empire. Ravenna then became the seat of Byzantine government in Italy.
During Byzantine rule, the Basilica di San Vitale was completed (though much of the artwork was completed during the period of Gothic rule). It holds some amazing examples of Byzantine mosaic art, which are considered some of the most important examples of Byzantine art in western Europe.
The photos we captured there do not do justice to the beauty and colors of these mosaics, most of which are over 1,400 years old. They are absolutely stunning.
More photos after the jump, including a detail shot. Keep in mind that the entire apse and surrounding arches are all decorated in mosaic pieces smaller than my fingernail. The ceiling in the main part of the church is painted, however.
Still incredibly jealous of your Italian excursion :) Stuff like this gets me all emotional and scheisse!
Posted by: Shane | June 19, 2008 at 07:16 PM