BASILICA OF SANT'APOLLINARE IN CLASSE

It was built by Giuliano Argentario on behalf of Archbishop Ursicinus during the first half of 6th century. It is one of the most perfect Basilicas in Ravenna. Besides its architectonic structure, it is well-known for its mosaics and marble sarcophagi of former archbishops along the side naves.

When the basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe was built 1500 years ago it was on the seashore. The imposing architecture of the basilica ground plan, which stands today in the country just outside Ravenna, was originally intended tostand on the Adriatic coast where it was built but which is now a few kilometres away. In fact it is right next to the Basilica that we find the extensive archaeological area of the ancient city of Classe, home of the Roman fleet. Sant'Apollinare in Classe is situated about 5 kilometres from the centre of Ravenna. The façade presents a portico under which there are marbles and inscriptions from the church. The door jambs and architraves of the main door are in Greek marble. Above the portico there is an elegant three-mullioned window. Along the left side of the church the tall bell-tower rises with its cylindrical form (post 9th century) and ascending series of embrasures, single, two and three light windows.

The interior, divided into nave and two aisles which maintains the fascination of its ancient splendour, has twenty-four columns of Greek marble with transversal veining, surmounted by capitals and dosserets and with the sumptuous mosaics of the presbytery.