The Mausoleum of GallaPlacidia is one of the oldest buildings in Ravenna and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. 

Although simple and modest in form, it immediately captures the eye with its distinctive brick structure, nestled in the shade of a centuries-old plane tree just behind the Basilica of San Vitale. 

Commissioned in the first half of the 5th century AD (after 426 AD) by Empress GallaPlacidia—daughter of Theodosius I, sister of Emperor Honorius, and regent for her son, Valentinian III—this small mausoleum was intended as her final resting place, where she could be buried alongside her brother and her husband, Constantius III, her second spouse. However, this plan was never realized: GallaPlacidia passed away in Rome in 450 AD and was buried there instead. 

Externally, the building presents a sober and unassuming appearance, with a small Latin cross layout and a dome concealed by a square lantern at the intersection of its four arms. Originally, it was connected to the Church of Santa Croce via a narthex (portico), which was later destroyed. 

Stepping inside, visitors are immediately captivated by the enchanting atmosphere created by the mosaic decorations, their brilliance accentuated by the golden light filtering through the alabaster windows. The lower walls are clad in yellow marble, while the upper sections, including the arches, lunettes, and dome, are entirely adorned with mosaics. 

Above the entrance, the most renowned mosaic stands out: Christ the Good Shepherd, depicted among his sheep. 

Finally, the mausoleum houses three marble sarcophagi: the central one, rather simple, dates back to the Roman era, while the other two, from the 4th and 5th centuries, are early Christian works adorned with the figure of the lamb, one of the oldest symbols of Christ.