Province of Ravenna

The incredible testimonies of this relevance are the eight early Christian monuments, which have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1996; namely the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Mausoleum of Theodoric, the Neonian Baptistery, the Baptistery of the Arians, the Chapel of St. Andrew, the Basilica of San Vitale, the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe. In these sites, what is striking are the splendid mosaics, particularly in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Neonian Mausoleum: in the former they are set in the vault, in the latter they are accompanied by classical-style decorations. In this hard-to-describe spectacle, it is the colors of blue and gold that dominate. In the octagonal Basilica of San Vitale, too, it is possible to admire a triumph of mosaics, set in an imposing architecture. Both inside, among the domes, capitals, and apse, and outside, it is a continuous rapture for the eyes.

In Cervia, you can also visit the salt pans, located within the Po Delta Park. The pools of salt in the water create beautiful landscapes, especially at sunset, and are the habitat for bird species such as flamingos and black-winged stilts.

But Ravenna's hinterland also hides several attractions. One of these is the historic center of Faenza, a town that has been home to the art of ceramics since the 16th century. Here, therefore, you will find many typical stores that continue this tradition. The city's historic center stretches between Piazza del Popolo, with the Palazzo del Podestà and the Palazzo Comunale, and Piazza della Libertà, where the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle is located. When visiting Faenza, don't miss the Museo del Risorgimento, set in Palazzo Laderchi, a splendid noble palace.

Even further inland, the province of Ravenna offers some charming villages. One of these is Brisighella. Nestled on three hills, its medieval charm is enhanced by the imposing Rocca Manfrediana, the Clock Tower and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Monticino. Another gem of Brisighella is the Antica Via del Borgo, a raised and covered road that dates back to the 12th century; the characteristic arched holes, which once had a defensive and passage function, now provide a splendid view of the town. If you visit Brisighella in spring, you can lengthen the itinerary to include the Chalk Vein Regional Park, which stretches beyond the village.

Another well-known medieval village is Riolo Terme, where the Rocca, not elevated but integrated into the town, is a splendid example of a defensive military fortification. Inside, you can also visit an interactive museum tour.

In addition to urban trekking in historic centers, the most interesting excursions that can be done in the province of Ravenna are located in the hills, and in particular in the territory of the Chalk Vein Park. Like, for example, the Carnè tour, that is, the chain of hills between the valleys of the Lamone and Sintria Rivers. Or, theMonte Mauro loop, which passes through Monte della Volpe.

The province of Ravenna is crossed by the Via Romea Germanica, a pilgrimage route that has linked the Benedictine monastery of the Holy Virgin Mary in Stade, Germany, to Rome since 1236. Those of interest to the province are stages 69 to 72.

If you are a bike enthusiast, the Ravenna area offers several lowland rides characterized by varied and pleasant landscapes, especially as they lap the beds of several waterways. Here are a few examples:

• the long "three rivers" loop, which from Forlì, passing through Cesena, leads to Ravenna, skirting the course now of the Savio, now of the Montone, and crossing the Bevano;
• the tour along the meanders of the Ronco, which leads from Forlì to the gates of Ravenna (or vice versa);
• the long loop ride from Faenza to the San Vitale pine forest, along the course of the Lamone and the Zanelli Canal;
• the "Bassa" tour along the rivers of Romagna, a loop that from Lugo passes through Alfonsine and Voltana, following the course of the Senio, Reno and Santerno rivers;
• the route along the Senio, which from Ponte del Castello, near Castel Bolognese, runs along the course of the river in one direction and the other as far as Cotignola.