Ravenna Essays -- Art History Papers

Located in northeast Italy in the Emilia-Romagna region and the capital of the province bearing its name, Ravenna is internationally celebrated for its stunning ancient mosaics and rich history. Ravenna's prosperous past is evident in its wealth of still-standing examples of Byzantine art and architecture. Positioned near the Adriatic Sea on a marshy plain, Ravenna has served as a strategic ?capital three times: of the western Roman Empire, of Theodoric King of the Goths, and of the Byzantine Empire in Europe? (History, par. 1). By delving into Ravenna?s history, as well as its remarkable artistic achievements, the reasoning behind its popularity in tourism becomes clear. Ravenna was formed by the buildup of centuries of silt deposits from the annual flooding of the Po River branches. The floods repeatedly pushed back the waterline of the Adriatic Sea to the point where Ravenna now lies, about five miles from the coast (Benigni, par. 1). The exact origin of this ancient city is uncertain as a multitude of legends lay claim to its beginnings. The Greek historian Dionysius of Hilicarnassus stated that the city was founded seven generations prior to the Trojan War; however, a fellow Grecian, Strabo, claimed that the Thessalonians were the founders. Tradition, according to Bovini, grants the title of earliest inhabitants to the Etruscans due to the typically Etruscan suffix,enna, as well as the discovery of Etruscan artifacts while historiographers insist that the Umbrians were the first established people (7). Little is known about Ravenna's history until the end of the third century BC when it fell completely under the influence of Rome. Though the city lacked the agricultural strength that normally drew the attention of th... ... by the Roman fleet in Classe, the earth has shifted in a way that it now lies two to three kilometers from the ocean Theodoric?s sixth century Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo was originally intended for Arians as their own palatinate church.? With a 16th century portico made of marble, a cylindrical bell tower from the 9th or 10th century, and mosaics with an astounding surface area, this edifice is a remarkable glimpse into Ravenna?s history.? The mosaics representing the processions Virgins and Martyrs are typical examples of Byzantine style.? In 520, Theodoric built this structure as his tomb.? The Mausoleum of Theodoric most likely held his remains in the upper floor until their removal during Byzantine rule.? The structure is made of Istria stone, the roof being one single block, and is ?divided in two decagonal orders one above the other (par. 52).?