San Giovanni Evangelista, Ravenna

The Basilica of San Giovanni Evangelista was built by the Roman princess Galla Placidia in the fifth century AD. The history of church construction is extremely interesting. A marble inscription on the church of San Giovanni Evangelista indicates to us that Galla Placidia (392-450) built this church in memory of the shipwreck survivor, herself and her children. Their Journey took place from Constantinople to Ravenna after the death of her brother Honorio to take over the kingdom of the Western Empire instead of her son Valentinian, who was then too young. Some mosaics are unfortunately lost, but the church is a wonderful example of early Christian architecture. In the Middle Ages, the Benedictines added an important monastery to it. In the 14th century, both the church and the monastery were rebuilt in the Gothic style, because of these interventions, a beautiful portal is visible.

Outstanding mosaics! Park around the church is also nice.

Surprised how nice it was for being off the usual guides. But that is the beauty of Italy. Mostly renovated after wwii but portal and mosaics are significant.

This is my favorite gothic church ever. Love it.

Small, but the mosaics were worth seeing.