Beneath the Church of Sant’Eufemia in Ravenna, the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra preserves the mosaic floors of an ancient residence. Found during excavations in 1993 and 1994, the site has 14 rooms with geometric designs, floral details and mythological scenes. A walkway lets you look down across the floors, including the “Dance of the Geniuses of the Seasons.” It is a compact stop for seeing Ravenna’s late antique craft from close range, away from the better-known church interiors.
A mosaic residence below the church
The Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra lies beneath the Church of Sant’Eufemia in Ravenna. The archaeological remains came to light in 1993 and 1994 during work for an underground car park. Excavations revealed a late antique residence with 14 rooms, their floors decorated with mosaics and marble inlay.
The site’s name means “House of Stone Carpets,” a reference to the patterned floors. From the modern walkway, you can view the rooms from above and take in the designs without walking across the ancient surfaces.
Details to look for
The floors combine geometric patterns with floral motifs and figurative scenes. The best-known work is the “Dance of the Geniuses of the Seasons,” which depicts dancers in flowing robes. Other mosaics include representations of the four seasons and the Good Shepherd.
Look at the changes from room to room: some floors are built around intricate geometric layouts, while others draw attention to figures or decorative motifs. The elevated route gives you a broad view of the arrangement, with details visible below.
Planning your visit
The entrance is through Sant’Eufemia, at Via Gian Battista Barbiani 16. The site is indoors and underground, with accessible entrance and restroom facilities listed. Admission is charged, and advance tickets are recommended. A guide can provide context for the imagery and help make the most of a short visit.
The Domus is a compact stop, so it can fit between visits to Ravenna’s other historic sites. Weekdays are a practical choice if you want a quieter visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra?
It is beneath the Church of Sant’Eufemia at Via Gian Battista Barbiani 16 in Ravenna. The entrance is through the church.
What can you see inside?
A walkway overlooks the remains of 14 rooms with mosaic and marble-inlay floors. Look for geometric patterns, mythological scenes and the “Dance of the Geniuses of the Seasons.”
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 10 to 30 minutes to walk through the site and view the mosaics.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. Check availability online before visiting.
