Ravenna Italia poster – Italy travel poster- Osvaldo Ballerio – c1920
This vintage Ravenna Italia poster transports us back to elegant travel era of the 1920s. It’s a captivating piece designed to promote tourism to Ravenna in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. Ravenna, a city steeped in profound history, served as the vital capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 AD until its collapse in 476 AD. This stunning poster, thought to have been created between 1920 and 1930 by the Italian artist Osvaldo Ballerio, does a wonderful job of conveying the unique beauty of this magnificent city.
What is the city of Ravenna famous for?
Ravenna, a fascinating city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is globally renowned for its extraordinary collection of Early Christian and Byzantine mosaics. These shimmering works of art, dating primarily from the 5th and 6th centuries AD, are considered among the finest and best-preserved examples of Byzantine art outside of Istanbul.
The Ravenna Italia poster by Osvaldo Ballerio
The Ravenna Italia poster’s design draws you into the heart of one of Ravenna’s most celebrated treasures, the Basilica of San Vitale. It offers a masterful view through the atmospheric shadows of the cloister, into the heart of the Basilica’s sanctuary, revealing the famed Byzantine mosaics within. You can distinctly see the elegant columns and the shimmering mosaic work of the church’s interior. Ballerio’s artistry captures the sense of wonder one feels upon entering these ancient spaces, with a view extending towards the deeper, darker apse.
A Glimpse into Byzantine Splendour
The Basilica of San Vitale itself is a classic 6th-century Byzantine structure, an important surviving example of Byzantine architecture in Europe. It was built on the site of the martyrdom of St. Vitalis, a Roman slave and an early Christian Martyr. This UNESCO World Heritage monument, designated in 1996, stands as one of the most important monuments of early Christian art in Italy and indeed, across the globe.
Within this sacred space, the poster hints at some of its most celebrated masterpieces. Viewers can glimpse sections of the triumphant arch mosaics depicting Jesus Christ and the Apostles, and the renowned mosaic of the Sacrifice of Isaac. Most notably, the artwork alludes to the iconic mosaic of the Emperor Justinian and his court in the sanctuary of the church—a powerful example of early Christian Byzantine art that continues to mesmerise visitors today. The poster beautifully conveys the majesty of these ancient mosaic marvels, solidifying Ravenna’s fame for its unparalleled Byzantine heritage.
A Collectible Vintage Ravenna Italia Poster for Your Home
This vintage Italyb travel poster wasn’t just for Italian audiences; it was designed for international appeal. Evidencing its global reach, the poster is overstamped with the shield containing the name and address of the General American Agency at 201 Fifth Avenue, New York, highlighting its distribution by a prominent American travel agency. This detail adds another layer to its historical significance as a relic of early transatlantic tourism promotion.
Original vintage travel posters like this are becoming increasingly elusive and, when found, often come with a substantial price tag. We understand the desire to own a piece of this artistic history without the exorbitant cost. That’s why we proudly offer high-quality reproduction posters that capture the very essence of the original artwork. Our reproductions look superb, offering exceptional detail and vibrant colours, allowing you to beautifully display this piece of history without breaking the bank.
This 1920s Ravenna poster is a wonderful souvenir which will hold a special place for anyone who has ever visited this captivating city, whether on a day trip, weekend break, or longer holiday. It’s a wonderful reminder of Ravenna’s unique atmosphere and a way to bring a touch of Byzantine flair to your home. This Vintage Ravenna Italia poster would be a perfect addition to your office, living room, snug, or kitchen, sparking conversations and igniting memories of this special Italian city. Order your reproduction Vintage Ravenna Italia poster today!
Is Ravenna, Italy worth visiting?
While Ravenna’s incredible mosaics have always held a significant historical and artistic appeal, it wasn’t a “mass tourism” hotspot in the 1920s in the same way that, say, Venice, Florence, or the Italian Lakes were becoming.
The 1920s were a period when tourism to Italy was indeed expanding, driven by better transportation and ENIT’s strong promotional efforts. So, Ravenna was certainly on the radar for cultural tourists, art historians, and those interested in specific historical periods. It was part of the broader push to attract visitors to Italy.
Today, Ravenna is definitely worth visiting, especially if you have an interest in history, art, and unique cultural experiences without the overwhelming crowds of some of Italy’s more famous destinations.
Ravenna… A World of Dazzling Mosaics
Ravenna’s most compelling draw is its extraordinary collection of Early Christian and Byzantine mosaics. These 5th and 6th-century masterpieces are considered among the finest and best-preserved examples of their kind anywhere in the world, outside of Istanbul. Eight of Ravenna’s monuments are collectively a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and seeing these shimmering works of art in person is a truly breathtaking experience.
Beyond the mosaics, Ravenna boasts a fascinating history. It served as a capital city for different empires during a pivotal period: first for the Western Roman Empire, then for the Ostrogothic Kingdom, and later as a key city of the Byzantine Exarchate. This rich past means you’ll find a captivating blend of influences woven throughout the city’s architecture and culture.
Ravenna is also the final resting place of Italy’s greatest medieval poet, Dante Alighieri, author of “The Divine Comedy.” You can visit his tomb and a nearby museum dedicated to him, offering a quiet moment of reflection for literature lovers. Don’t miss the unique Mausoleum of Theodoric, a distinct 6th-century structure with a massive monolithic dome.
Compared to bustling cities like Florence or Rome, Ravenna offers a more relaxed and authentic Italian experience. It’s a highly walkable city, making it easy to stroll between its main attractions. You’ll find charming piazzas, lovely local restaurants and a generally slower pace of life. It’s often considered a “hidden gem” that delivers immense cultural value without the usual tourist crowds.
