Ravenna

Ravenna is a place that wasn’t originally on our list
Once read about it decided it shouldn’t be missed.
Previously a capital now home to 8 UNESCO sites
Bland façade buildings containing mosaic delights.

Enter the Basilica of San Vitale via an imposing door
Millions of tiny coloured tiles form images that awe.
Almost like a painted picture with detail so intricate
Extreme patience required producing art so delicate.

Smooth marble stone and alabaster columns uphold
Cherished scenes depicted in mosaics of blue & gold.
Even the vast floors are inlaid with miniature tiles
Each building varying differently in it’s design style.

With the region being flatter it is easy to walk around
Discovering yet another surprise in this unique town.
Unassumingly in a shaded corner, almost tucked away
Lies the tomb of the poet Dante, just a simple display.

We lunched at Ca’de Ven known for it’s piadina
“The bread of Romagna” is famous here in Ravenna.
Our choice probably not the best, as it was rather plain
But happy for the experience and so very glad we came.Read more