Description

This work explores the rich and complex history of Ravenna, focusing on its role as a political, military, religious, and cultural center through various phases of the Roman, Byzantine, and medieval periods. Starting with its importance as the capital of the Western Roman Empire, it traces Ravenna's transformation under the rule of the Ostrogoths, its reconquest by the Byzantine Empire under Justinian, and its eventual decline during the Lombard invasions. The book delves into the city's architectural and artistic heritage, particularly its mosaics and churches, which are masterpieces of early Christian and Byzantine art. Ravenna's position as the seat of the Exarchate in the 6th century is examined, highlighting its role as a focal point for Byzantine power in Italy. The relationship between Ravenna, the Carolingian Empire, and the Papacy is explored, along with the city's enduring significance in the religious and cultural landscape of medieval Europe. Ultimately, Ravenna's decline in the face of Lombard rule is framed within the broader context of the political fragmentation of Italy, but its legacy in art, architecture, and Christian heritage continues to resonate through the ages. The work provides a comprehensive analysis of how Ravenna navigated the intersection of imperial and religious transformations, contributing significantly to the cultural and religious identity of the early medieval world.