Faenza & Ravenna: Ceramics & Mosaics

Artistic expression takes many forms on this phenomenal excursion, which offers an in-depth look at the area’s iconic ceramics, architecture and mosaics.

Depart from the pier and enjoy a leisurely drive inland to Faenza, a city celebrated for its glazed earthenware pottery, known as faience. Your guided walking tour here includes a stop at the International Museum of Ceramics where you’ll trace the global history of the craft through its extensive collection. This marvelous collection includes pieces from the Far East, works by modern artists such as Picasso, and centuries-old faience ceramics.

Continuing on, you’ll soon arrive at the late 15th-century Faenza Cathedral. While its exterior is rather plain brick, the interior holds a number of invaluable pieces of Renaissance art, including paintings and a wooden choir stall. Following your exploration of the cathedral, you’ll have a bit of free time before being treated to a leisurely lunch of regional specialties. Afterwards, you’ll make your way back to Ravenna for a walking tour through the city center.

Byzantine mosaics take center stage here at sights such as the 6th-century Sant’Apollinare Nuovo basilica. Almost all of its original mosaics depicting the life of Christ still exist, and the colors are surprisingly vibrant, even after 1,500 years. You’ll also tour the San Vitale Basilica, whose Byzantine mosaics are considered the finest in the western world, and they too are in splendid condition.

More spectacular mosaics await you at the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The Roman empress who commissioned the tomb in the 5th century was never buried here, but it certainly would have been a grand final resting place. After visiting, you’ll re-board your coach and transfer directly back to the pier.