Tours & tickets

Classis Ravenna Museum

Welcome to the enchanting journey through the glorious history of Ravenna and its territory, an experience that will lead you to discover the grandest basilica of the city and the Museum of the City and Territory, a treasure trove of innovation and knowledge. Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe Immerse yourself in the ancient magnificence of the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, a jewel of architecture and mosaic art dating back to the 6th century AD. Here, you will walk along the side aisles adorned with ancient marble sarcophagi and fragments of original mosaics, once part of the basilica's original flooring. Your gaze will be captured by the majestic mosaics adorning the apse, suggestive representations of the Transfiguration of Jesus and Sant'Apollinare in prayer, surrounded by symbolic lambs. The intricate details and vivid colors will transport you back in time as you immerse yourself in the history and spirituality that permeate this sacred place. Marvel at the panels from the 7th century portraying the Byzantine Emperor Constantine IV and biblical scenes of Abraham, Abel, and Melchizedek, offering you a unique insight into the history and culture of the time. Classi Museum At the Museum of the City and Territory, awarded for its innovation in 2021, the adventure continues with an immersion into the history and culture of Ravenna and its territory. Through essential chronological nodes and innovative exhibitions, you will be transported through the centuries of evolution of this fascinating city. From a large mosaic symbolizing the indissoluble bond between Ravenna and the sea, to a Timeline marking the crucial epochs of the city's history, each step will bring you closer to understanding the roots and identity of Ravenna. Explore the sections dedicated to daily life and spirituality, immerse yourself in the reconstruction of ancient places of worship and residences of Ravenna's citizens, and be fascinated by the innovative technologies that enrich the museum experience. Conclude your journey through the past and present of Ravenna and Classe, aware of the historical and cultural importance of these places. Thanks to the intense educational activities offered by the museum, you will have the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and further explore this rich heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art connoisseur, or simply a traveler eager to discover new wonders, Ravenna will welcome you with open arms, offering an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world.

Welcome to the Classis Museum of Ravenna, a place that carries with it the captivating tales and tangible evidence of the millennia-old history of this fascinating city. Winner of the prestigious Francovich Award in 2021, the museum offers a unique immersive experience, celebrating the essential chronological points that have shaped the historical fabric of Ravenna and its territory. From the moment of entry, you will be greeted by a ramp adorned with the majestic "Wave Mosaic," a tangible symbol of the deep bond between Ravenna and the sea, as well as suggesting a profound connection with other sites in the Archaeological Park of Classe. The innovative exhibition setup will guide you through a comprehensive and engaging narrative, encompassing the birth and evolution of Ravenna and its nearby port city of Classe. The exhibition, enriched with significant and fascinating materials, will take you along a Timeline that marks the different epochs, while thematic insights will guide you through daily life, maritime navigation, artistic production, and more. Recent additions to the exhibition path include the sections "Living in Ravenna" and "Praying in Ravenna," exploring respectively residential urban planning and places of worship, offering a new perspective on the daily life and spirituality of the Ravennese community. Through an exhibition area of 600 square meters, you will encounter over 150 square meters of unpublished mosaics, some of imposing dimensions, which dynamically interact with other archaeological finds and architectural elements of the period. This treasure trove of knowledge offers an unparalleled glimpse into the public and private life of Ravenna Capital. The museum not only showcases history but also endeavors to educate through the use of innovative technologies, including graphic reconstructions, films, and models, providing an interactive and engaging experience. Inaugurated in 2018, the museum represents one of the most significant interventions in the recovery of industrial archaeology at the national level, transforming the former Sugar Refinery of Classe into a vibrant cultural hub. We invite you to explore not only the museum itself but also the surrounding beauties, from the enchanting green oasis that surrounds it to the other gems of the Archaeological Park of Classe, such as the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe and the Ancient Port of Classe, which await you at a short distance. Be ready to immerse yourselves in a journey through the centuries, as the Ravenna Museum guides you through the epochs and stories that have shaped this extraordinary city throughout history. Welcome to a timeless adventure.