Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal In Italy’s Ravenna To Unveil Stunning Mosaic Artwork For 2026

Published on November 26, 2025

Ravenna, the historic metropolis noted for its Byzantine mosaics, is to give a new visual masterpiece at the Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal, which is scheduled to open in 2026. A mosaic installation, executed to commission, will beautify the terminal’s main hall and dazzle cruise passengers and tourists with its modern interpretation of an old tradition. This artistic contribution will not only increase the cruise terminal’s architectural beauty but also highlight the fusion of art and travel.

The Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal, part of the Ravenna Civitas Cruise Port, is not just a new gateway for cruise ships but a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. The mosaic artwork is set to reimagine Ravenna’s famous Byzantine mosaic tradition, incorporating modern interpretations of the theme Journey and the Mediterranean. Royal Caribbean Group and its partners have invited four renowned local artists to submit their designs, each reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of the region.

A Touch of Tradition and Modernity in a Global Gateway

The Porto Corsini terminal, designed by architect Alfonso Femia, will blend the latest in cruise infrastructure with a narrative rooted in the history of Ravenna. In a city renowned for its ancient mosaics, such as those found in the Basilica of San Vitale, this new artwork will serve as a modern-day homage to the past. The design will feature a large mosaic installation spanning 25 square meters, or 269 square feet, in the terminal’s main hall.

Local artists have been asked to reinterpret the Byzantine mosaic style through a contemporary lens, merging the traditional art form with modern techniques and materials. The selected artist will present a vision that tells a story of travel, exploration, and the Mediterranean, offering passengers a glimpse into the cultural heart of Ravenna even before they disembark.

The final choice will be made by an expert jury, which will evaluate the artistic proposals based on both their aesthetic qualities and their ability to capture the essence of the region’s maritime history. The decision will be announced in January 2026, just ahead of the terminal’s grand opening.

Local Artists Invited to Reimagine Ravenna’s Art Legacy

The four shortlisted artists, Dusciana Bravura, CaCo3, Nicola Montalbini and Sergio Policicchio, each bring a unique perspective to the mosaic tradition. Dusciana Bravura, a Venice-born artist, has trained extensively in Ravenna and blends traditional mosaic with Murano glass. CaCO3, a collective founded by Âniko Ferreira da Silva, Giuseppe Donnaloia, and Pavlos Mavromatidis, is known for their intricate restorations and contemporary designs that have been displayed in international exhibitions. Nicola Montalbini, born in Ravenna, draws inspiration from Greco-Roman art forms, while Sergio Policicchio, originally from Argentina, combines multimedia with traditional mosaics.

Each artist will submit their proposals for the mosaic, which will be installed in the terminal’s high-traffic area, ensuring that millions of travelers pass by it every year. The installation will not only showcase Ravenna’s artistry but will also immerse visitors in the city’s rich historical context, offering them a deeper understanding of the place they are visiting.

A Cruise Terminal That Welcomes Both Passengers and Locals

Beyond serving as a transit hub for cruise passengers, the Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal is designed to be an asset for the local community as well. With spaces for local food outlets, entertainment, and events, the terminal will be open for public use when ships are not docked, providing a space for both locals and tourists to enjoy.

Ana Karina Santini, AVP of International Destination Development at Royal Caribbean and chair of Ravenna Civitas Cruise Port, commented that the terminal’s mosaic artwork is part of a broader initiative to foster stronger ties with the local community. She explained that art is a powerful way to connect people to the past, and the mosaic will serve as a tangible link to Ravenna’s rich cultural history. For Santini, the terminal’s opening in 2026 is expected to position Ravenna as a world-class homeport for cruise ships, underscoring its long-standing role as a gateway to the Mediterranean.

The choice to use mosaic as the medium for the terminal’s artwork was not accidental. Ravenna has long been a hub for mosaic art, and the city’s importance in the Roman Empire left behind a lasting legacy of stunning works in churches and other historical sites. The new installation will both honour this heritage and introduce it to a new generation of visitors.

Anticipating the Terminal’s Impact on Tourism

When the Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal opens its doors in 2026, tourists arriving by sea will be welcomed by this striking piece of art, setting the tone for their visit to the city. The large-scale mosaic will not only be a visual highlight but will serve as a symbol of Ravenna’s ability to blend the old with the new, bringing a contemporary flair to its time-honoured traditions.

With millions of passengers expected to pass through the terminal each year, the mosaic will play a pivotal role in fostering a deeper appreciation of the local culture. Visitors will be captivated by the intricate details of the artwork, and many may find themselves inspired to explore Ravenna’s other mosaic treasures once they step ashore.

A Destination That Celebrates Art, Culture, and Travel

Ravenna has always been in the limelight for its global significance, and the newly opened Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal is expected to raise the profile of this city even higher as a top Mediterranean destination. The continuing trend of cruise ships looking for alternative homeports has put Ravenna’s cultural and historical attractions in the limelight as a glamorous pick. The new terminal at the city, which is known for its amazing mosaics, great stories and lively art district, will be the perfect entrance for both experienced travelers and new ones.