One European city is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, nestled in a region that is known for 'the motor valley'. Located with the region of Emilia-Romagna in Italy is the city of Ravenna. It is replete with history, including eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mausoleum of Galla Placida; the Church of St. Vitale; the Neonian Baptistery; the Archiepiscopal Chapel; Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo; the Arian Baptistery; the Mausoleum of Theodoric and the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe.
All of these monuments are considered to be some of the most important examples of architectural and artistic development from the fifth and sixth centuries AD. The monuments, which are well preserved, are known for their polychrome mosaics — intricate and colourful works of art made by setting small pieces of material, called tesserae, together to create patterns. The monuments located within walking distance of each other, and holidaymakers can purchase a combination ticket for a few of them. There are also many guided walking tours, which travellers can also join.
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a small yet magnificent early Christian structure which was built in the fifth century. The mausoleum is shaped like a Greek cross, with four arms of equal length. Its exterior is constructed from brick, typical of early Christian architecture. However, the interior is a striking contrast, adorned with fine mosaics. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is one of the oldest monuments in Ravenna.
