5 Beautiful Mosaics You Never Knew Existed
For lovers of culture and travel, historical art around the world is a huge attraction, from the gorgeous renaissance arts of Florence, Italy, to the awe-striking murals of Michelangelo. However, some globe-trotters overlook one of the most beautiful, culture-rich art forms of all, the Mosaic Art.
Here are some of the most enchanting (and surprisingly unknown) Mosaic artworks around the world that you’ll be sure to want to scribble on your bucket list!
1. The biblical beauty of Ravenna, Italy
Dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries, at a time when Ravenna was at the heart of the Western Roman Empire. The cities trademark murals have much more than history to offer. Situated in three churches, the Basilica of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo, the Sant’ Apollinare in Classe and the Basilica of San Vitale look proudly out over their heritage-rich city depicting biblical scenes. This striking, haunting mosaic artwork has secured a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
2. The Playful Colours Of Parc Güell, Barcelona, Spain
One of Antoni Gaudi’s hypnotic works is Parc Güell, an example of the mastery of mosaic crafts. Overlooking the bustling city of Barcelona, Spain. The early 20th century artist designed the park, with the bold and winding tile murals, spacious terraces and exquisite mosaicked fountains. An intricately abstract and colourful fusion of pattern and shape serve as public benches and walls, concluding with a mesmerizing tile dragon at the base of the stairs.
3. New York City Subway, New York, USA
The emergence of mosaic wall art in city subways was thanks to architect and artist Squire Vickers in the early 20thcentury, who committed to making the busy, fast-paced walkways a little more beautiful. Over 226 artworks of varying genres can be found in NY subway today, reminding us to slow down and absorb the beauty of every day every once in a while.
4. La Maison Picassiette, Chartres, France
The uniquely embellished little cottage; La Maison Picassiette in Chartres, France was constructed with the love and dedication of Raymond Isidore between 1938 and 1964, who adorned his home with thousands of pieces of ceramic tile. The quaint yet striking house welcomes 30,000 visitors per year to admire the endearing mosaic artwork.
5. The Cosmati Pavement, Westminster Abbey, London, UK
Westminister Abbey in London, UK is known for its grand stature and variety of historical art and The Cosmati Pavement is no exception, the vast 24sqft floor depicting the demise of the universe was constructed in the 13thcentury with the rarest glass, gemstones, and marble; inspired by the Pope’s Roman décor. ‘Cosmati’ comes from the name of a famous Roman family renowned for their sculpture, architecture and geometric floor mosaics.
Are you inspired to book a plane ticket and see the gorgeous feats of marble and tile that the world has to offer?
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