Basilica of San Vitale

Built in the 6th century, the Byzantine temple is distinguished by its interior decorated with magnificent mosaics. Together with seven other buildings, Ravenna is inscribed on the UNESCO list.

The church was built on an octagonal plan with a dome and side extensions and was to be an expression of the power of Emperor Justinian the Great.

Inside are the best preserved Byzantine mosaics outside of Constantinople. The most famous of them depict Emperor Justinian surrounded by Bishop Maximilian and the guard, and Empress Theodora with her companions.