National Museum of Ravenna, National museum and art collection in Ravenna, Italy.
The National Museum of Ravenna occupies the former Benedictine monastery of San Vitale and displays archaeological finds, artworks, and historical artifacts across several exhibition rooms. The collection spans multiple periods and documents the artistic and cultural history of the region.
The collection originated in the 17th century when Camaldolese monks assembled artworks and artifacts, and the museum was formally founded in 1887 before relocating to its current location in the early 1900s. This move allowed the museum to display the city's important art collection in a proper setting.
The museum displays Roman epitaphs, Byzantine sculptures, and a large collection of ivories that show how artistic styles changed over time in this region. These works reflect the different cultures that shaped Ravenna across the centuries.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and located on Via San Vitale, with wheelchair accessibility throughout the building. Visitors can explore the former monastery grounds and should allow adequate time to walk through the various exhibition rooms.
The museum preserves fragments of the Porta Aurea, a Roman gate from the 1st century that served as the city's southern entrance until it was demolished in the 16th century. These rare remains offer insight into Ravenna's importance as a major trading center in ancient times.
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