|The basilica ends in a semi-circular apse. Mosaic decoration
covers both it and the triumphal arch. The mosaics of the apse
are dated before the middle of the 6th century whereas the
mosaics on the arch date between the 6th and 12th centuries.|
|In the lower part of the apse Saint Apollinare is depicted in
the center of a green landscape. Saint Apollinare, the first
bishop of Ravenna, is robed in a white dalmatic and purple
tunic, embroidered with bees, symbolizing eloquence. He is in
the early Christian "orant" position--with outstretched arms
praying. Twelve lambs are at his feet, symbolizing the community
of the faithful. This figure also symbolically recalls Christ as
the Good Shepherd, with the twelve sheep then representing
Christ's Disciples.| ParadiseA paradisal landscape is depicted
in this lower region of the apse with a meadow filled with
trees, bushes, flowers, rocks, and birds. Realism and
stylizationElements of the landscape are isolated and arranged
symmetrically and no attempt is made to depi