Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
4.5
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
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- spedubecBologna, Italy5,801 contributionsSplendid and glittering mosaics.This morning I visited Byzantine Ravenna with the combined ticket for five attractions starting with this unmissable basilica. I had obviously already seen it many years ago and today I still found it splendid with its glittering mosaics. The white portico in front of the church is beautiful and particular.Visited February 2024Traveled with friendsWritten February 25, 2024
- L’EustBari, Italy6,353 contributionsSimply superb basilicaThe basilica is a notable landmark for the visitor of Ravenna. The relative simplicity of the exteriors compared to the very high standard of the interiors is astonishing. The wooden vault, frescoes and inlaid frames of astonishing value are very precious! The colonnades are simple but the whole thing is coordinated and recites an immeasurable theme! Flooring is no less as are the altars that support the whole.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 24, 2024
- maziro79Milan, Italy157 contributionsThe best mosaics in RavennaIt's difficult to make a choice among the best mosaics in Ravenna, but if I really had to choose I would say Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. The mosaics along the entire nave are magnificent. The possibility of purchasing a ticket to visit 5 sites is excellent.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 2, 2024
- VadimMurmansk, Russia35,021 contributionsThe largest and oldest mosaic monumental cycle of the New Testament.The basilica was erected by the Ostrogothic King Theodoric in 505 as a Palatine church, i.e. intended for his court. The significance of the basilica is that it contains the largest monumental cycle of the New Testament made in mosaic and the oldest extant. The upper tier contains gospel stories. The basilica has an unusual symmetry for churches. On the north side there are 13 scenes of evangelical miracles, and on the south side there are also 13 scenes of the Passion of Christ. The prophets and saints are depicted in the middle tier. But the lower tier is divided by gender: on the north wall, the procession of virgins is opposed by the martyrs on the south. However, not all the mosaics made under Theodoric have come down to us. The fact is that the Ostrogoths, like all Germanic tribes, adhered to the Arian version of Christianity, i.e. they denied the divinity of the Trinity (the Nicene Creed), which means they did not recognize the divinity of Christ, considering him a creation of God (since he addressed God as "Father"). After the annexation of Ravenna to the Byzantine Exarchate in the time of Justinian, all mosaics meaningfully related to this version of Christianity were destroyed and replaced by Byzantine ones. Therefore, it is a monument not only of Ostrogothic culture, but also of Byzantine.. Although art historians believe that the rearranged mosaics are less interesting than the original ones from the time of Theodoric. The 38-meter cylindrical bell tower was attached to the basilica in the IX—X centuries. At the same time, the basilica itself was renamed, which in the time of Theodoric was dedicated to Christ the Savior, in the time of Justinian - to St. Martin, the fighter against Arianism.Visited June 2023Traveled soloWritten May 12, 2024
- Luis PValencia, Spain2,009 contributionsanother wonderYou never tire of visiting this basilica and admiring its architecture and mosaics from different periods. Curious representation of the wise men of the East compared to other more hieratic and repetitive representations. We must pay attention to the damnatio memoriae that was carried out in the representation of the Arian Theodoric's palace, marking the characters that were between the arches of the palace, which is now represented with curtains, but with hands that protrude from the columns. Unfortunately the original apse was lost.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 21, 2024
- Pilpa8Italy739 contributionsNot to be missedEven the entrance to this basilica is part of the single ticket Ravenna Mosaici; recommended and very convenient purchase. The exterior is very simple, cute the exposed brick bell tower with mullioned and trifore windows. The interior is majestic, consisting of three naves and 2 rows of 12 columns in Greek marble. In the nave stand out the decorated coffered ceiling and the splendid mosaics at the top on both sides. The decorations are spread over three overlapping bands: in the first band, near the ceiling, the Stories of Christ, in the second the Saints and Prophets flanked by the large windows, below an uninterrupted decoration shows the City of Class with the harbor, the Theory of the Virgin Saints, the Three Kings, the Madonna Enthroned, Theodoric's Palace, the Martyrs' Procession, Christ Enthroned (really a lot of stuff... but impossible to grasp all the multiple details)Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 5, 2024
- FrancescaMLido di Ostia, Italy3,190 contributionsBeautiful mosaicsConsidered the most famous basilica in Ravenna, it houses a unique mosaic heritage of inestimable value. Like the other monuments of Ravenna, it has a sober facade but it is the interior that encloses the wonder. The large side bands of the nave covered with mosaics leave you speechless. I found the Chapel of Peace and Victory in the left aisle very touching. A space collected in memory of the first bombing of Ravenna and the basilica during the I G.M. A moment of prayer for all the fallen. I bought online the cumulative ticket for €12.50 for the 5 main monuments but you can also do it at the ticket offices.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 19, 2024
- Catia91 contributionsSpectacularVisited with a tour guide, the basilica is presented in all its majesty. Like most basilicas in Ravenna, the exterior is very sober, while entering you are left with bated breath. The rows of Martyrs and Martyrs on either side of the nave are spectacular to reach the wonderful apse. The mosaics are wonderful, but the explanation that a guide can offer gives the whole thing added valueVisited November 2024Traveled with friendsWritten November 10, 2024
- tovel 1Artegna, Italy1,718 contributionsBeautiful.Outside, the beautiful cylindrical bell tower stands out. As soon as you cross the entrance of the basilica you are welcomed by a large and very harmonious environment. On the side walls of the nave above the columns unfold the beautiful mosaics that rise up to the coffered ceiling. The quality and preservation of the mosaics is astonishing, breathtaking. The apse part has a style that doesn't fit much with the rest but is a negligible detail.Visited January 2025Traveled soloWritten January 23, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Sumiclizia
Bologna, Italy360 contributions
Sep 2022 • Family
The mosaics found here are particularly important, because they show the evolution of the Byzantine style, given that they date back to different periods. They develop in three bands and the two highest ones are the oldest ones. We recommend purchasing the combined ticket with the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Neonian Baptistery and the Archbishop's Museum and Chapel for €12.50.

Written August 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan C
Barnard Castle, UK322 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
If you are looking to get combo tickets to visit several of the mosaic sites, this is the place to get them as it is far less busy than the No1 site Basilica di San Vitale. You also get a decent map. The mosaics themselves are literally breathtaking – the narrative Biblical story and the processions of saints in two different artistic styles, though only a few years apart in construction, are so beautiful that it is hard to put into words. Try if possible to avoid large party group visits as it would not enhance your experience and I guess it may not be the same if the sun was not shining (we had a mid-morning visit)
Written October 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
marekhiaro
Vienna, Austria8,213 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
It has this name to differentiate it from Santa Apollinare in Classe. It is located in the historic center, has three naves and a beautiful coffered ceiling. The mosaics in the central nave are beautiful, both on the right and left. I had access through the purchase of a combined ticket with 4 other attractions costing 12.50 euros.

Written January 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carpense
Carpi, Italy3,591 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
Magnificent temple, a UNESCO heritage site, dating back to the 6th century, in early Christian basilica style, initially intended by Theodoric for the Arian cult and later assigned to the Catholic orthodoxy of Emperor Justinian. Classic basilica layout with three naves, punctuated by a magnificent colonnade.
Coffered ceiling. Of elegant workmanship. The current apse area presents itself in the lines developed in the 17th century. The exceptional importance of this extraordinary church monument lies above all in the imposing and evocative cycle of mosaics, created in two clearly distinct phases, of the main nave, which gives us 26 scenes from the New Testament and also a realistic view of the ancient Ravenna port of Class. A unique monument, of superb and poignant beauty, which alone would be worth the trip. Absolutely unmissable.
Coffered ceiling. Of elegant workmanship. The current apse area presents itself in the lines developed in the 17th century. The exceptional importance of this extraordinary church monument lies above all in the imposing and evocative cycle of mosaics, created in two clearly distinct phases, of the main nave, which gives us 26 scenes from the New Testament and also a realistic view of the ancient Ravenna port of Class. A unique monument, of superb and poignant beauty, which alone would be worth the trip. Absolutely unmissable.

Written December 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
B d A
Athens, Greece1,016 contributions
Mar 2023
Theodoric did it and it is a good lesson for the self-pity of post mbyzantine theorizing. A unic scenic effect of this rectangularium basilica with the sligtly leaning campanile. The series of the longitudinal lateral wall mosaics display freshness, premodernism, luminosity, variety, crisp colororation and a prea eastern flair of what is essentially the roman-byzantine-eastern continuum That is conscioys or a form of collective unconscious, The edifice is large, breats easily, allows for the reformatory understading as to how it has be formed and the story beneath
Another "pilgrimage" after 2009 in this impressive town and still far from having absorbed the pinnacle and the essence Do not miss it
Another "pilgrimage" after 2009 in this impressive town and still far from having absorbed the pinnacle and the essence Do not miss it
Written March 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
enber
San Felice del Benaco, Italy375 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Basilica built in the 6th century by Theodoric near his palace.
It has an extraordinary early Christian mosaic cycle that extends along the entire nave, in the lower part. On the left side looking at the apse, from the bottom, the image of the city of Classe. Then a procession of Saints which culminates with the adoration of the Mother of God by the Magi.
On the opposite side the image of Theodoric's palace and a procession of saints culminating with Christ on the throne.
The idea of having a combined ticket for the various monuments is very good.
Not to be missed.
It has an extraordinary early Christian mosaic cycle that extends along the entire nave, in the lower part. On the left side looking at the apse, from the bottom, the image of the city of Classe. Then a procession of Saints which culminates with the adoration of the Mother of God by the Magi.
On the opposite side the image of Theodoric's palace and a procession of saints culminating with Christ on the throne.
The idea of having a combined ticket for the various monuments is very good.
Not to be missed.

Written September 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
VENETIAN2015
Bishopscourt, South Africa98 contributions
May 2022
Another of the 8 UNESCO listed buildings in Ravenna with its later added bell tower.The breath taking mosaics ar3 most probably unparalleled anywhere in world , perhaps outside Istanbul ( when it was historically Constantinople)
Like most of the UNESCO listed buildings the time allowed to actually be in the building is limited and you are ushered out when your allotted time is up. Advance Booking is ESSENTIAL
It is a “ must see place” when in Ravenna
Like most of the UNESCO listed buildings the time allowed to actually be in the building is limited and you are ushered out when your allotted time is up. Advance Booking is ESSENTIAL
It is a “ must see place” when in Ravenna
Written May 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
macedonboy
Glasgow, UK186,202 contributions
May 2023
This church is inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage List for its design, fusing western and eastern architectural styles of the 5th and 6th century Roman world. The interior of the church is dominated by the long nave supported by twenty-four Corinthian columns on each side. Above the columns are mosaics that run the length of the wall.
On the left wall are 3 rows of mosaics. The most important is the the bottom row depicting a scene of saints, prophets and evangelists, being led by the Three Magi, moving from the city of Classe towards the group of the Madonna and Child
The mosaics on the right wall follows the same overarching design as on the left. The most significant mosaic here is a procession of 26 Martyrs, led by Saint Martin and including Saint Apollinaris. The procession is moving from the Palace of Theodoric towards Christ enthroned, who is surrounded by four angels.
Without doubt one of the finest things to see in Ravenna, and one of the finest mosaics in Italy.
On the left wall are 3 rows of mosaics. The most important is the the bottom row depicting a scene of saints, prophets and evangelists, being led by the Three Magi, moving from the city of Classe towards the group of the Madonna and Child
The mosaics on the right wall follows the same overarching design as on the left. The most significant mosaic here is a procession of 26 Martyrs, led by Saint Martin and including Saint Apollinaris. The procession is moving from the Palace of Theodoric towards Christ enthroned, who is surrounded by four angels.
Without doubt one of the finest things to see in Ravenna, and one of the finest mosaics in Italy.
Written July 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JJJC_Family
Virginia795 contributions
Nov 2021
The largest building with mosaics in Ravenna. It’s a long, long room with mosaics of various holy men and women running from back to front up top of arches on both sides and a mosaic laden front (apse?). I walked up and down the sides over and over again, as this was our last site of the day. While a little less dynamic and showy looking than other buildings, it’s still great. In fact, the different look versus the other buildings we saw beforehand makes the day more interesting. Variety is the spice of life. A day in Ravenna will be a day you won’t forget. Plan on going someday.
Written January 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PavlaPavla
Chrudim, Czech Republic7,716 contributions
Jul 2022
It is a wonderful example of a Byzantine basilica. There are not only mosaics depicting the miracles of Jesus and his resurrection, but there are many other interesting depictions. There is, for example, a mosaic of the ancient port of Classe, which no longer exists, or a depiction of Theodoric's palace.
Very interesting is the "Last Supper" mosaic, where Jesus and the apostles are lying not sitting at the table.
Very interesting is the "Last Supper" mosaic, where Jesus and the apostles are lying not sitting at the table.
Written July 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello is it possible to make a reservation please?
Written July 28, 2018
Buon giorno. Vorrei sapere quanto può durare la visita più o meno. Grazie”
Written March 30, 2018
Is there public transportation from Ravenna to the basilica? Where would I get it? How often does it run? What is the price? Thanks!
Written September 15, 2017
Yes there are buses from the station to go there.
Written September 24, 2017
What is the entrance fee without a tour?
Written May 1, 2016
Tickets are for the entire collection of UNESCO sites in Ravenna (Museo Arcivescovile, Battistero Neoniano, Basilica Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Basilica San Vitale, Mausoleo Galla Placidia) and it costs 9.50€ (regular ticket) or 8.50€ (students). From March to mid-June you have to add 2.00€ to visit Mausoleo Galla Placidia due to touristic peak. The tickets last 7 days and you can see the above mentioned monuments one time each (during these 7 days). You can visit each site on your own, the guided tour is not compulsory.
Written May 12, 2016
What's the better day to come: Sunday or Monday?
Written June 27, 2015
It depends on the season... During the summer it gets a bit crowded the whole week long...
Written May 12, 2016
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