Basilica  di  Sant'Apollinare  Nuovo

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 4 August 2023
The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is situated in Ravenna city centre. It was founded in 504 AD by Theodoric the Great, the king of the Ostrogoths who ruled Ravenna in the sixth century. 

Famous for the intricate mosaics that line its walls, it's one of the eight sites of the Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna UNESCO listing. The eight sites include the nearby Mausoleum of Theodoric. 
The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is not to be confused with the similarly-named Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe, another of the eight sites listed by UNESCO, which lies five kilometres to the south of Ravenna. 
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The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is an ancient and magnificent basilica located in Ravenna, Italy. It is one of the city's most important early Christian monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The basilica is renowned for its stunning mosaics, which are among the finest examples of Byzantine art in Italy.

History: The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo was originally built as a palatine church during the reign of the Ostrogothic King Theodoric the Great in the early 6th century AD. It was dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours. After the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I conquered Ravenna in 540 AD, the church was rededicated to Saint Apollinaris, the first bishop of Ravenna.

Over the centuries, the basilica underwent several modifications and restorations. During the 9th and 16th centuries, the facade was altered, and the bell tower was added. Despite these changes, the basilica's mosaics, dating back to its early Byzantine period, have been exceptionally well-preserved.

Architectural Features: The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo boasts an architectural blend of Roman, Byzantine, and early Christian styles:

  • Longitudinal Plan: The basilica follows a classic Roman basilica layout with a longitudinal plan, featuring a nave flanked by two aisles.
  • Mosaics: The interior of the basilica is adorned with impressive mosaics covering the upper parts of the nave and the triumphal arch. The mosaics depict various religious scenes and the lives of Saints Apollinaris and Martin.
  • Columns and Capitals: The basilica features columns and capitals made of various materials, reflecting the architectural influences from different historical periods.
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Tourist Information: Visiting the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo offers a captivating journey into early Christian art and history:

  • Byzantine Mosaics: The basilica's mosaics are a visual feast, showcasing the artistry and religious symbolism of the early Byzantine period.
  • Historical Significance: The basilica is a significant site of Ravenna's early Christian heritage and a reflection of the city's cultural and political importance during late antiquity.
  • Educational Experience: Guided tours and audio guides are available to provide in-depth information about the basilica's history, architecture, and mosaics.
  • Historical Context: Visitors can learn about the transition from the Roman Empire to Byzantine rule and the spread of Christianity in Italy.
  • Accessibility: The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is centrally located in Ravenna, within walking distance from other notable early Christian monuments.
  • Local Cuisine: Tourists can indulge in traditional Italian cuisine at nearby restaurants and cafes, adding to the overall cultural experience.
Location: Ravenna

Province: Ravenna

Region: Emilia Romagna

Built: 504 AD

Architectural style: ​​Paleochristian, Byzantine
Opening times vary from month to month but typically: 

Summer

09:00 - 19:00 every day

Winter

10:00 - 17:00 every day
Ticket price: 

​Entrance to the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is only available in conjunction with some of the nearby sights. For the combine ticket price of €12.50 you also gain access to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Neonian Baptistery, the Basilica di San Vitale and the Archiepiscopal Museum with its famous Cappella di Sant'Andrea. 

Tickets can be purchased here with the ability to choose not only your required date, but also a time slot as each site has a time limit in order to keep the numbers of visitors at any one time to a minimum. 
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna

​Year: 1996

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