Ravenna, crucible of Europe

In this presentation I will explore the role of Ravenna, imperial capital from AD 402, until its fall to the Lombards in 751, as a catalyst in the development of what we can now identify as Eureopan features. Gothic rulers, imperial governors from Constantinople and local bishops all contributed elements to its particular culture, which drew on the integration of Germanic and Roman traditions within a Christian framework. Under the influence of Byzantium, diffused through Ravenna, ideals of efficient goverment sanctioned by law, policies of acculturation and religious toleration were embedded in the early medieval West. While Charlemagne was later hailed as the father of Europe, this novel identity had first taken form in Ravenna.