Basilica of San Francesco Ravenna

In Ravenna, the understated Romanesque Basilica of San Francesco sits just behind Dante's tomb and is a favorite of the city's people. Not only was it built by the Da Polenta family, the lords who hosted Dante Alighieri in his exile here in Ravenna, but the church was where his funeral was held when the renowned poet passed away in 1321.

The church is farely spare; while it doesn't merit the status of other churches that are awash in the marvelous mosaics that make Ravenna famous. However, the crypt is washed by water - so much that it's called "the submerged crypt." And it is there that sets the church apart - the water itself, and below the water where you'll find the mosaic flooring, much of intact. The crypt was built for stability of the church and beauty, with three naves, lots of columns that hold up cross-vaulted ceilings. The church dates to the 10th century, but somewhere along the way, the crypt, which was accessed by two staircases, sits below sea level, and so water became to seep in. Now it resembles an ancient Roman swimming pool with the submerged mosaics and the clear water. Some fish have found their way in and swim amidst the columns.

The crypt can be viewed by way of a window behind the altar.

The church is open from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM daily. (Mass times are 7:30 AM and 6:30 PM daily except Sunday, with Mass at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:15 AM and 6:30 PM. Visits aren't allowed during Mass.
Hours may vary by season and the church may close during lunch hours.