The Basilica was built in the first half of the 6th century. Compared with the mosaics I had seen in Ravenna, it was so large and imposing with a very spacious nave and has lots of light green on the apse mosaic. Light green just like the views I had seen from the bus on the way to get here. |
Standing at the altar and gazed up at the apse, I saw the cross in a golden sky, perhaps representing a sunrise. And the below, a light green field is filled with trees, plants, and birds. In the center of the field is Sant’Apollinare, the first Bishop of Ravenna, to whom the Basilica is dedicated. The flock of Sant’Apollinare is represented by the 12 lambs processing toward him, representing the 12 apostles. In addition, there are 3 lambs in the field, looking at the cross, representing the 3 apostles Peter, James and John. |
This is the detail of Sant’Apollinare, labeled with the inscription "SANCTVS APOLENARIS." He raises his arms in prayer to the cross, that is Jesus Christ. |
The mosaic on the top of the triumphal arch depicts a bust of Christ giving a blessing. |
