The lagoons of the northern Adriatic are guardians of the millennia-old stories of conquests, power-struggles and epic empire-building efforts. The fortunes of the Aquileian patriarchs, Byzantine emperors and Venetian doges are told in fascinating mosaics and frescoes across the region.

Enjoy a glass of superb Friulian white wine in Aquileia, near the Grado lagoon, once among the most important cities of the Roman Empire. Its medieval basilica is the custodian of the largest early Christian mosaic in the West, while its frescoes remind of the crucial role the Franks played in the region. 

Cross the Venetian lagoon in a private boat to the island of Torcello to learn about the instrumental roles that Aquileia and Ravenna, ancient lagoon cities, played in the creation of the Venetian Republic and its myths.

In Ravenna’s mosaics, follow the battle of Christian dogmas and witness the classical union of Byzantine state and Church. Stroll through Ferrara, admiring the rational Renaissance of D’Este dukes, and relax on a cruise of the river Po’s delta with its rich birdlife and ancient fishing huts. 

From Aquileia to Ravenna, the journey tracks the rise and spread of Christianity and corresponding changes in iconography, dogmatic disputes and changes of powers – from Rome, Ostrogoths and Byzantines to Lombards, Franks and Venetians. Of course, sifting through 1500 years of history can only be done accompanied by not only guides – but wonderful local cuisine and delicacies!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Marvel at UNESCO listed archaeological sites, patriarchal basilica and mosaics of Aquileia, the city once second only to Rome in wealth and political influence. 
• Travel by private boat to Torcello, a sparsely populated island at the northern end of the Venetian Lagoon to view the Cathedral Sta Maria Assunta and learn more of the history of the lagoon from early Christianity to rise of the Venetian Republic.
• Explore the beautiful town of Ferrara. Its UNESCO listed historic centre is a harmonious blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, tranquil streets and elegant palaces surrounded by ancient city walls.

ITINERARY

The full itinerary can be found on the Distant Horizons website.

Aquileia and Ravenna tour