Ravenna plans a vibrant future for its cruise industry with the new Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal. The city already shines as a global capital of Byzantine mosaics. Now it aims to greet cruise passengers with a modern artwork that draws from this rich heritage. The terminal will open in 2026. The mosaic will stand inside the main hall and welcome travelers with a fresh take on a treasured local craft. The project also strengthens Ravenna’s desire to connect art, culture, and international tourism.
City leaders want the terminal to act as both a travel hub and a cultural showcase. They also want visitors to feel the spirit of Ravenna the moment they step inside. Because of this, the mosaic will reflect local traditions while offering a bold contemporary twist.
A Fusion of Ancient Craft and Modern Travel
Architect Alfonso Femia designed the new terminal with an eye toward beauty and functionality. He shaped the building to echo Ravenna’s long history while supporting the needs of today’s cruise guests. Therefore, the mosaic serves as the perfect artistic centerpiece. It will cover 25 square meters and sit in a busy public area. Every visitor will see it before they move toward the city.
Royal Caribbean Group and its partners invited four respected artists to compete for the commission. Each artist must interpret the theme Journey and the Mediterranean. The theme captures both the city’s maritime identity and its historic role as a crossroads of cultures.
The panel will choose the winning design in January 2026. The selection will rest on artistic quality, cultural depth, and the ability to spark curiosity among travelers.
Local Artists Bring Fresh Visions to a Historic Craft
The shortlist includes Dusciana Bravura, CaCo3, Nicola Montalbini, and Sergio Policicchio. They each bring unique styles and strong ties to mosaic art.
Dusciana Bravura trained in Ravenna and blends classical mosaic with Murano glass. Her work often shows bold colors and delicate patterns. CaCo3, a trio with international experience, creates detailed pieces that reveal strong technical skill. Nicola Montalbini draws from Greco-Roman imagery and reflects Ravenna’s deep history. Sergio Policicchio mixes multimedia with ancient mosaic methods to produce vivid modern designs.
Each artist understands the cultural responsibility behind the project. They also know the mosaic will greet millions of passengers every year. The final piece will introduce visitors to Ravenna’s story long before they explore its streets and monuments.
A Terminal Designed for Community and Connection
The Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal aims to serve more than cruise passengers. When no ships dock, the space will remain open for locals. It will host events, markets, and cultural activities. The city wants the terminal to become a lively gathering point throughout the year.
Ana Karina Santini, chair of Ravenna Civitas Cruise Port, explained that the mosaic will strengthen links between the cruise industry and the local community. She believes art creates emotional bridges that connect people with their surroundings. She also expects the terminal to help Ravenna grow as a major homeport within the Mediterranean region.
Honoring a Legacy While Shaping the Future
Ravenna earned fame during the Roman and Byzantine eras due to its extraordinary mosaics. Its churches and monuments feature world-renowned works that draw art lovers from across the globe. The new installation at the terminal honors this tradition and brings it into the present.
The choice of a mosaic also reflects the city’s identity. Ravenna has nurtured master mosaicists for centuries. Local schools and studios continue to train new artists who carry the craft into modern contexts. Therefore, the terminal’s artwork stands as both a tribute and a symbol of evolution.
A New Gateway to Culture and Travel
The Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal will offer a striking welcome for visitors when it opens in 2026. Travelers will see the mosaic as soon as they enter the building. The artwork will spark curiosity and invite them to explore Ravenna’s famous sites. Many visitors will likely head straight to the city’s historic basilicas to discover the mosaics that inspired the new installation.
The terminal will also support Ravenna’s rise as a leading cruise homeport. Many cruise lines now seek alternative locations that offer strong infrastructure and strong cultural appeal. Ravenna fits these needs while offering quieter surroundings than larger Italian ports.
A Destination That Celebrates Art and Exploration
Ravenna has always stood out as a city of art, culture, and deep history. The new Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal adds another chapter to this legacy. The mosaic installation will help shape the identity of the terminal and the visitor experience. It also highlights the city’s belief that travel should connect people with meaningful stories.
As the cruise industry grows, Ravenna positions itself as more than a port. It becomes a destination where travelers begin their journey with beauty, creativity, and a sense of place. The new mosaic will act as a brilliant introduction to the city’s treasures. It will also celebrate Ravenna’s timeless bond with the Mediterranean world.
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