Basilica of San Vitale, Byzantine church in Ravenna, Italy.
San Vitale is an octagonal basilica in Ravenna, Italy, known for its extensive mosaics and central dome. Eight massive pillars support the dome and connect through arches, while marble columns line the lower levels.
Construction began in 526 under Bishop Ecclesius and was completed in 547 during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. The church was built when Ravenna belonged to the Byzantine Empire and served as a bridge between East and West.
The names of patrons appear in wall mosaics where real faces from the sixth century look directly at visitors. These portraits of emperors, bishops and courtiers convey a sense of power and ceremony from the time when Ravenna served as a capital.
The basilica opens daily for visitors, with certain times reserved for religious services. Guided tours in several languages help interpret the mosaics and architecture.
The dome construction uses hollow tubes in its structure, an early building innovation that anticipated modern clay tile forms. This technique reduced the weight of the dome and allowed for a slimmer construction.
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