Basilica di San Vitale

The Basilica of San Vitale is a 6th-century church located in Ravenna, Italy. It is most famous for its fabulous Byzantine mosaics, including a magnificent mosaic of the Emperor Justinian, which dates from around 547 AD. The basilica's octagonal plan is derived from both Roman and Byzantine architectural styles, while the interior is filled with finely preserved 6th-century early Christian mosaics and artwork. These include a beautiful cycle of mosaics in the apse, which depict the narrative of Jesus and the Good Shepherd, as well as two mosaics of two noblemen, who were probably the donations that funded the construction of the basilica. Among the artwork are also many pieces of marble and gold, including a statue of Justinian which was consecrated by Pope John VII in 705AD. San Vitale is a unique example of early Christian architecture and art, and a must-see for anyone who visits Ravenna.