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| It was drizzling when I arrived in Ravenna, but as I reached this small tranquil marketplace, it finally let up. Ravenna is the city of mosaics, recognized as a world heritage by UNESCO. |
I first headed to the Basilica di San Vitale, which has the largest Byzantine mosaics outside Istanbul. Built in 548 AD. |
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As soon as I stepped inside the church, I was overwhelmed by the mosaic decorations all the way up to the ceiling. It left me speechless! |
The presbytery and the apse are adorned with the details of plants, animals, and birds. |
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Jesus Christ, seated on a blue globe, flanked by angels, San Vitale and Bishop Ecclesius on the vault of the apse. |
The presbytery arch is decorated with mosaic medallions of the 12 apostles along with Jesus Christ on top surrounded by pairs of dolphins and a rainbow medallion. |
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| As I looked up at the cupola before I exited the church, I was amazed and fascinated, almost fainted. |
From outside the back of San Vitale, it didn't look as large as it was inside. |
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