'… in the past one had to deplore the fact that there is no comprehensive book in English on this subject. With the publication of the present book, this situation has changed dramatically, because [it] not only tells the full story of Ravenna, but also documents all the scholarly interpretations and controversies surrounding its art …' International Review of Biblical Studies 'Deliyannis succeeds in her purpose to a commendable extent. Her work is scholarly, lucid, balanced and well organized throughout … The author concentrates on the great monuments of the city, offering not just meticulous and informed descriptions, but also judicious and knowledgeable examination of the context of each … This sensitive and informed treatment of the monuments combined with an impressive knowledge of secondary literature makes for a volume which should reinforce detailed understanding of an unparalleled survival from the antique world, and encourage more scholarly interest among both historians and art historians.' T. S. Brown, Early Medieval Europe