A map annotated by Tolkien, found in 2015 among the pages of a book by illustrator Pauline Baynes, explicitly indicates Ravenna as the model for Minas Tirith. Ravenna, with its low hills and medieval charm, is said to have inspired the author to create the capital of Gondor. This is confirmed by Tolkien himself, who, not surprisingly, placed Minas Tirith on the map of Middle-earth at exactly the same latitude as Ravenna. Although there are no visual echoes of this in Peter Jackson’s films, which favored a CGI image inspired by Mont Saint-Michel, the geographical and architectural influence of the Romagna city remains undeniable.
The wonders of Ravenna
There are many wonderful medieval cities in Italy, so why Ravenna? Although often underrated and not included in the best tourist itineraries, Ravenna is a true historical gem. The city boasts not one, not two, but eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Which ones are they?
- The Basilica of San Vitale: a symbol of Byzantine splendor in Ravenna, it is famous for the mosaics of Justinian and Theodora that illuminate the interior of the church with golden stones and intense colors.
- Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: a small building that hides a great treasure. Here, the vaults and walls are covered with midnight blue mosaics, starry crosses, and ancient geometric patterns.
- Neonian Baptistery: considered one of the best-preserved early Christian baptisteries in the world, it has a dome entirely decorated with a mosaic depicting the scene of the Baptism of Christ and figures of the apostles.
- Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo: a long nave flanked by rows of columns guides the eye towards the splendid mosaics depicting processions of saints, palaces, and court scenes.
- Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe: famous for its apse decorated with Christ, Bishop Apollinare, and symbolic landscapes evoking a pastoral atmosphere.
- Arian Baptistery: more intimate but equally evocative, it is striking for its mosaic dome depicting the Baptism of Christ, testimony to the era when Ravenna was also the center of Arianism.
- Archbishop’s Palace and Chapel of Sant’Andrea: inside the archbishop’s complex is a small chapel richly decorated with splendid mosaics.
- Mausoleum of Theodoric: built in Istrian stone, it has a massive structure and a large monolithic dome, linked to the figure of the Ostrogoth king who made Ravenna his capital.
Unsplash / photo by Luca Severin
How to reach Ravenna from Milan
Returning to Middle Earth from Milan Central Station has never been so quick and easy. The Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed trains reach Ravenna in just 2.5-3 hours, and the journey time by car is similar. Whatever your choice, public transport or four wheels, the historic center of the city is ready to welcome you for a magical weekend, among Byzantine mosaics and Tolkienian legends.
The soundtrack to your journey to Middle-earth
Before physically setting off on a new adventure to discover the city that inspired an iconic location in the series, relive the most exciting moments of the series through its soundtrack. To mark the 25th anniversary of “The Lord of the Rings, “ Candlelight and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences have joined forces to create a one-of-a-kind show. A candlelit concert inside the historic Casa Cardinale Ildefonso Schuster, where a talented string quartet will play the iconic melodies that accompanied Frodo and Bilbo on their adventures. Are you ready to return to Middle-earth?