Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Emilia-Romagna
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, located in Ravenna, Italy, is a remarkable Late Antique Roman structure built between 425 and 450 AD. Although commonly named after Empress Galla Placidia, she was likely not buried here; the mausoleum served as a chapel or oratory originally adjoining the Church of the Holy Cross. Architecturally, it features a cruciform floor plan with a central dome supported by pendentives and barrel vaults over the transepts. Its exterior is characterized by brickwork with blind arcades and a square tower enclosing the dome. The interior is renowned for some of the oldest and most beautiful mosaics in Ravenna, depicting Christian iconography symbolizing the victory of eternal life over death, with a starry sky dome that has inspired artists. The mausoleum contains three marble sarcophagi attributed to members of the Theodosian dynasty, including Emperor Honorius and Constantius III, though Galla Placidia’s burial there is a medieval misconception. The building’s floor was raised over centuries to combat rising waters. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its spiritual atmosphere and extraordinary mosaic artistry.
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Astuce: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the mosaics' details. Tickets can be purchased online or at the site, with discounts often available for students and seniors. Combine your visit with nearby UNESCO sites in Ravenna for a comprehensive cultural experience. Photography may be restricted inside, so check current guidelines. The mausoleum is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the historic center.
Faits intéressants
- •The mausoleum’s mosaics are among the oldest and best-preserved examples of early Christian art in the world.
- •Its central dome features a stunning starry sky mosaic that inspired composer Cole Porter’s song 'Night and Day'.
- •The sarcophagus thought to contain Galla Placidia’s remains was accidentally destroyed by fire in 1577.
- •The building’s floor has been raised by about five feet since the 5th century to prevent flooding from the nearby Adriatic Sea.
- •Despite its name, Galla Placidia was never buried in the mausoleum, debunking a long-held misconception.
Histoire
Constructed between 425 and 450 AD, the mausoleum was likely commissioned by Empress Galla Placidia, daughter of Theodosius I and regent for her son Valentinian III.
Originally attached to the Church of the Holy Cross in Ravenna, it served as a chapel or oratory rather than a burial site.
Medieval tradition mistakenly claimed Galla Placidia was interred here, but she died and was buried in Rome.
Over time, the building’s floor was elevated to protect against rising Adriatic waters.
The mausoleum was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996 as part of Ravenna’s paleochristian monuments.
Guide du lieu
Central Dome and Starry Sky Mosaic5th century
The central dome is adorned with a magnificent blue mosaic depicting a starry sky, symbolizing the heavens and eternal life, creating a mesmerizing spiritual atmosphere.
Mosaic of the Good Shepherd5th century
Located above the entrance, this mosaic shows Christ as the Good Shepherd, a common early Christian symbol of care and salvation.
Marble Sarcophagi4th-5th century
Three marble sarcophagi are housed inside: one attributed to Emperor Honorius, another to Constantius III and Valentinian III, and the largest once thought to contain Galla Placidia’s remains.
Cruciform Architecture5th century
The building’s cruciform layout includes a central dome on pendentives and barrel vaults over the four arms, with brick exterior decorated by blind arcades and narrow mortar joints.
Contact
Téléphone: 0544 541688
