Experiencing the richness of history, art, and architecture often forms a major part of my travel journeys. It’s always intriguing to explore places that offer an immersive experience into a world that lets you time-travel to bygone eras. One such place is Ravenna, a city in Italy less frequented by tourists, but one with a glorious past and equally enthralling present.
Stepping into Ravenna’s illustrious past
An exploration of Ravenna takes you on a journey full of fascinating tales from its past. Once at the helm of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna’s historical significance is humongous. It became an important centre during the Gothic and Byzantine periods. The Byzantine mosaics adorning the interiors of many of its 5th to 6th century churches are a testament to Ravenna’s vibrant past.
The eight UNESCO World Heritage sites
The city’s monumental structures are not just architectural marvels but also repositories of cultural wealth born out of different eras. Eight of Ravenna’s early-Christian monuments are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Basilica di San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, Baptisteries, and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare highlight the exemplary architecture that still captures the glory of Ravenna’s past.
Exploring the under-explored: Up close with Ravenna’s contemporaneous charm
A trip to Ravenna is not limited to just history. The modern life of the city has its charm and attractions that make the visit more enriching and memorable. The city has a rich gastronomy tradition. You can savour some of the best seafood caught fresh from the Adriatic at the multitude of restaurants the city boasts of. The local wine cellars offer you the chance to enjoy fine and nuanced flavours of the regional and local Italian wines. A visit to the weekly market offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s daily life, its local produce, and also interact with the local population.
Cultural Events in Ravenna
Throughout the year, Ravenna stages various events like the Ravenna Festival, a world-renowned music and art festival. Its heady mix of classical and contemporary performances offer a scintillating cultural experience. The annual event, ‘Notte d’Oro’ or the Golden Night, with its distinctly unique artistic exhibitions and performances, gives an enchanting night-time charm to the city.
So, if you plan for a journey that combines the pleasure of exploring historical riches with the smell and taste of modern Italian life, immerse in the artistic rhythm of cultural festivals, Ravenna should be on your travel map. Get ready to discover the lesser-known, off-the-beaten-track town, and experience Italy like never before.
Ava Thompson is a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, who has been captivating audiences with her vivid storytelling and insightful travel tips for nearly a decade. At the age of 29, Ava has already traversed the globe, exploring over 60 countries on six continents. Her passion for discovery and her degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, have fueled her pursuit to uncover the world’s hidden gems and share them with her readers.
Ava’s journey into travel writing began shortly after her graduation, when she embarked on a year-long solo backpacking trip. Her experiences, from the bustling markets of Southeast Asia to the serene landscapes of the Scandinavian fjords, became the foundation of her now-popular travel blog. This platform not only showcased her talent for engaging narrative but also her keen eye for the cultural nuances that make each destination unique.
As the lead travel writer for a major online news outlet, Ava specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel practices, and cultural immersion experiences. Her articles are a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from budget-friendly itineraries to luxury retreats, always with a focus on traveling respectfully and responsibly.
Beyond her written work, Ava is a sought-after speaker at travel conferences, where she shares her expertise on ethical tourism and the transformative power of travel. She is also deeply involved in various conservation projects, advocating for the protection of natural sites and cultural heritage around the world.
Ava’s infectious enthusiasm for adventure and her commitment to sustainable tourism make her a beloved and inspiring figure in the travel community. Through her stories, she encourages her readers to embrace the unknown, connect with different cultures, and see the world with an open heart and mind.
