Mosaics

Eight Early Christian monuments in the City of Ravenna are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List because “of the outstanding universal value and remarkable significance of the supreme artistry of the mosaics that the monuments contain as well as the crucial evidence that they provide of artistic and religious relationships at an important period of European cultural history “

The Mausoleo di Galla Placidia was built mid 5th century by the sister of Emporer Honorius. While the outside is simplistic that contrasts with the lavish decorations of the interior.

The Basilica Di San Vitale which was consecrated in 548 AD is one of the most important monuments of Early Christian art.

The mosaics on the apse depict the Byzantine imperial couple Justinian and Theodora

Then there was Basilica di S. Apollinare Nouvo erected in the 6th century by Theoderic

The final monument we visited was Battistero degli Ortodossi, one of the oldest monuments in Ravenna, dating to the early 5th century 

All were stunning examples of superb craftsmanship when civilisation was still in nappies relatively speaking.

I took a video (here) which sums up the Italian psyche when it comes to parking their cars - anywhere and everywhere. Just after I stopped the video a 6th car pulled up alongside the Porsche, the driver hopped out and left his lights flashing as well, all 6 in a no parking area.

Also I’m more convinced than ever that Italian drivers regard pedestrians as mere skittles, you take your life into your hands if you start to cross on a crossing if you haven’t made sure the car approaching is going to stop.

I’m posting a seperate post today of some of the street signs I photo’d which highlights the fact that this is indeed a city of the mosaic.

Kms driven to date 2936

Kms walked to date 424.4

Spent on Diesel €203.66

Highest price paid to date for diesel €1.699 Verona

Lowest price paid to date for diesel €1.479 Freiburg

Spent on tolls €42.50