Moonstone: Byzantine Mosaics and Art Ceramics (7 days)

Overview: A 9-day journey through Italy’s chocolate capitals and coffee traditions, blending history, craftsmanship, and tastings.

womans face with red and yellow face paint

From Ravenna to Ferrara: Between gold and clay

Ravenna - Byzantine Splendor

Ravenna preserves unique masterpieces in the art of mosaic, with UNESCO monuments that represent "stone and gold, simplicity and hieratic nature." The Domus of Stone Carpets, winner of the Bell'Italia Prize 2004, presents 14 rooms with polychrome mosaics and the rare "Dance of the Geniuses of the Four Seasons."

Faenza - Ceramic Excellence

Faenza represents world excellence in ceramics, with historic workshops like Maioliche Padovani that since 1981 have kept alive the traditional techniques that made Faenza craftsmanship famous worldwide.

Ferrara - Renaissance Graffiti Ceramics

Ferrara preserves the tradition of Renaissance graffiti ceramics, with Palazzo Schifanoia hosting over 800 pieces created between the 14th and 17th centuries, while craftsman Franco Mazza continues this millenary tradition.

A brick wall with a checkered design on it

Key Experiences:

Ravenna: Night tours of UNESCO sites like San Vitale, where moonlight enhances gold tessera details. Visit the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra, a 5th-century palace with rare mosaic motifs.
Faenza: Hands-on workshops at Maioliche Padovani, crafting traditional “lustro” ceramics. Meet Carla Lega, a fourth-generation ceramist revolutionizing shapes using ancient techniques.
Ferrara: Study Renaissance graffiti ceramics at Palazzo Schifanoia, home to 800+ historic pieces.

Practical Info: Spring/Autumn | Premium guides | Customizable artisanal souvenir sessions.