Historical and Cultural Journey in Ravenna, Italy

A Day of Discovery in Ravenna

Today was another day filled with the enchantment that Ravenna so generously offers. It's remarkable how a city can hold so much history and beauty within its ancient walls, and I'm thrilled to share my experiences with you. From exploring mosaic-adorned churches to savoring the local cuisine, Ravenna continues to captivate my heart and soul.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Serafina. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of Italian pastries filled the air as Hans and I settled into a cozy corner. It's these simple moments, sharing a meal and planning the day ahead, that I cherish the most. Being away from Hannover, even temporarily, allows us to focus on each other and the beauty around us. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the delicious pastries back home, perhaps adding a Thai twist to honor my heritage.


Discover the taste of Italy at Serafina in Ravenna – renowned for its exquisite pizzas and inviting atmosphere.

Fueled by caffeine and anticipation, our first stop was the Chiesa di Sant'Eufemia-Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra. This unique site combines an 18th-century church with an underground archaeological area showcasing Roman mosaics. Descending into the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra felt like stepping back in time. The intricate floor mosaics, discovered in 1993, were stunning. The mosaics spanned 700 square meters and depicted various characters and geometric patterns from the 4th century. It's incredible to think that these mosaics have survived for centuries, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once walked upon them. The integration of the mosaics within the modern structure of the church was cleverly done, creating a seamless blend of different eras. I was particularly fascinated by the stories these mosaics told, imagining the Roman families who commissioned them and the artisans who meticulously crafted each tiny tile. Hans, ever the engineer, was impressed by the structural ingenuity that allowed for the preservation of such delicate artifacts.


Explore the mesmerizing Chiesa di Sant'Eufemia-Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra, a treasure trove of ancient mosaics and architectural beauty in Ravenna.

Ravenna's mosaics are not just art; they are a window into the past, reflecting the city's rich history and cultural fusion.

Next on our itinerary was the Battistero degli Ariani, or Arian Baptistery [i]. This small, octagonal building, dating back to the 5th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by the Ostrogothic King Theodoric, it served as a place of worship for those practicing Arianism, a Christian belief that differed from the mainstream Orthodox Christianity. Stepping inside, I was immediately drawn to the mosaic on the dome, depicting the baptism of Christ. The vibrant colors and intricate details were breathtaking, a testament to the skill of the Byzantine artisans who created it. What struck me most was the depiction of Christ as beardless, a unique representation that reflected the Arian beliefs. The baptistery's simple brick exterior belies the artistic treasures within, a common theme in Ravenna's historical sites. Hans and I spent a considerable amount of time admiring the mosaics, discussing the theological differences between Arianism and Orthodox Christianity, and marveling at the preservation of this ancient monument. It's humbling to stand in a place where history unfolded, where emperors and religious leaders shaped the course of civilization.


Discover the stunning Battistero degli Ariani, a 5th-century architectural marvel adorned with exquisite mosaics in the heart of Ravenna.

For lunch, we ventured to Osteria dalla Zabariona, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Romagna cuisine [i, 21]. The osteria had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with friendly staff and the aroma of home-cooked meals filling the air. We started with cappelletti with Mora Romagnola ragu and gnocchi with duck ragu. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, the pasta perfectly cooked and the ragu rich and savory. For the main course, Hans chose the Grigione ribs, while I opted for the piadina. The ribs were tender and succulent, falling off the bone with ease, while the piadina was a delightful taste of local street food. We ended our meal with a dolce di crema bruciata, a perfectly creamy and satisfying dessert. Osteria dalla Zabariona is a true gem, offering an authentic taste of Romagna cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting. I'm eager to try my hand at making piadina when I return to Hannover, perhaps incorporating some Thai spices for a fusion twist.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria dalla Zabariona in Ravenna – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in a bit of relaxation at Zero4 Il Pub in Centro. This cozy pub offered a wide selection of drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. Hans enjoyed a local beer, while I savored a glass of tonic. The pub was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing, to soak in the local culture, and to simply enjoy each other's company. As we sat there, sipping our drinks and watching the world go by, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Ravenna and to share these experiences with Hans.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zero4 Il Pub in Ravenna, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.

Dinner tonight was at Ristorante Alexander, known for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance [i, 3]. Nestled in the heart of the historic center, the restaurant exuded an air of sophistication and charm. We were greeted warmly by the staff and seated at a table overlooking the ancient walls of Ravenna. Chef Mattia Borroni's cuisine is a journey through taste, blending tradition with innovation. We started with the polio glassato, cavolfiore cozza e arancia and the culurgiones, mora romagnola, burro di nocciola, pecorino, scamorza e cicoria cimata. For the main course, Hans chose the piccione, cipolle bianche, castagne e cavolo nero, while I opted for the merluzzo salato da noi, mele radicchio e pinoli. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. The chef's passion for his craft was evident in every bite, and the impeccable service added to the overall dining experience. Ristorante Alexander is a true culinary destination, a place where food becomes an unforgettable experience.


Discover exquisite Italian and seafood cuisine at Ristorante Alexander in Ravenna - where every meal is a delightful culinary journey.

As the day draws to a close, I reflect on the beauty and history that Ravenna has unveiled. The mosaics, the churches, the food, and the people have all contributed to a truly memorable experience. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Rocca Brancaleone and the Archiepiscopal Museum [i]. I'm particularly excited about Rocca Brancaleone, a 15th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the city [i]. Before we leave Ravenna on Saturday, I'm also hoping to find some time for shopping, perhaps picking up some local crafts or culinary souvenirs at Topazio Ravenna [i]. It's hard to believe that our journey is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made in Ravenna will stay with us forever. I am looking forward to sharing a new recipe inspired by Ravenna with my cooking class in Hannover. I'm thinking of combining traditional German baking techniques with Italian flavors, perhaps a mosaic-inspired cake using colorful fruits and glazes.

Until tomorrow,
Mali