Basilica of San Apollinare In Classe is a prime example of early Byzantine art. It was built in the 6th century on the site of the tomb of the first bishop of St. Apollinaris of Ravenna. The relics of the saint were discovered here during the construction, and then stored for a long time inside the basilica. However, in the middle of the 9th century them from the threat of enemy raids had to be moved inside the city walls, the Basilica of San Apollinare Nuovo. There they remained until 1748, the year when the remains of the saint returned to the original place and placed in the main altar of the church. In 1996, the Basilica of San Apollinare In Classe added to the list of World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Luxury mosaic decoration of the basilica was created over several centuries - from the 6th to the 9th century. Later, the church built a chapel, porch and belfry. Unfortunately, after the attack on Ravenna Venetians in the mid-15th century from the original mosaics were only fragments - in the apse.

The building of the basilica is built of thin adobe. The facade is decorated with double arches with pilasters and semi-circular windows. Inside, the main nave is framed by 24 columns, standing on a square base and topped with capitals with the Byzantine pattern. Marble for these columns was brought from the Greek island Prokonessos, and above them there are frescoes of the bishops of Ravenna.

Attractions Basilica of San Apollinare In Classe can distinguish the altar of Our Lady of the 11th century in the central nave, 10 Medieval sarcophagi and a small marble urn 4th century with a touching inscription: "Licinia Valerie Faustina Italians rest of the world, who has lived one year, six months, six days, the beloved daughter of the grieving parents. "