Pisa Baptistery
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 11 January 2024
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The world famous Leaning Tower is understandably the main draw of the city of Pisa in Tuscany, but the Pisa Baptistery is one of the places you'll go away talking about with just as much enthusiasm.
Built between 1152 and 1363 it's situated in the same square (Piazza dei Miracoli) where you'll find the aforementioned tower and along with Pisa Cathedral and the Camposanto Monumentale. |
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Pisan architect Diotisalvi's creation is the largest baptistery in Italy and combines a mix of architectural styles including Gothic and Romanesque.
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The Pisa Baptistery, known as "Battistero di San Giovanni" in Italian, is a magnificent religious building located in Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) in Pisa, Italy. It is one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture in the city and holds immense historical and religious significance.
Construction of the Baptistery began in the 12th century and continued over several centuries, with different architects contributing to its design. It was consecrated in 1363, making it one of the oldest baptisteries in Italy. The building's striking circular shape and exquisite architectural details make it a significant landmark in Pisa's architectural heritage.
Construction of the Baptistery began in the 12th century and continued over several centuries, with different architects contributing to its design. It was consecrated in 1363, making it one of the oldest baptisteries in Italy. The building's striking circular shape and exquisite architectural details make it a significant landmark in Pisa's architectural heritage.
Key features
The Baptistery is renowned for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, featuring a circular plan with three levels. Its exterior is clad in white marble and adorned with a series of arches and columns, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic influences.
The building's facade is adorned with decorative elements, including blind arcades, sculpted figures, and intricate details. The upper level features a dome with a conical roof, culminating in a statue of Saint John the Baptist, after whom the Baptistery is named.
The interior of the Baptistery is equally impressive, with a grand octagonal baptismal font at the center. The font is made of carved marble and is adorned with reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Christ and Saint John the Baptist. The pulpit, crafted by Nicola Pisano in the 13th century, is another remarkable feature, showcasing exceptional sculptural work.
Visitors will also marvel at the beautiful baptismal font cover, a later addition created by Giuseppe Castellucci in the 19th century, which adds to the overall splendor of the interior.
The building's facade is adorned with decorative elements, including blind arcades, sculpted figures, and intricate details. The upper level features a dome with a conical roof, culminating in a statue of Saint John the Baptist, after whom the Baptistery is named.
The interior of the Baptistery is equally impressive, with a grand octagonal baptismal font at the center. The font is made of carved marble and is adorned with reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Christ and Saint John the Baptist. The pulpit, crafted by Nicola Pisano in the 13th century, is another remarkable feature, showcasing exceptional sculptural work.
Visitors will also marvel at the beautiful baptismal font cover, a later addition created by Giuseppe Castellucci in the 19th century, which adds to the overall splendor of the interior.
Visitor information
- Visiting Hours: The Pisa Baptistery is open to visitors daily, but the opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is recommended to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date schedule.
- Entry Fee: There is usually an entry fee to visit the Baptistery. Visitors can also purchase combined tickets that grant access to multiple attractions in the Piazza dei Miracoli, including the Leaning Tower and the Pisa Cathedral.
- Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides and guided tours are available for visitors who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the Baptistery's history, architecture, and religious significance. Knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights into the building's rich heritage.
- Dress Code: As with most religious sites in Italy, visitors are advised to dress modestly when visiting the Baptistery. Short skirts, sleeveless tops, and bare shoulders are not allowed as a sign of respect for the religious nature of the place.
Battistero di Pisa
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City: Pisa
Province: Pisa Region: Tuscany Completed: 1363 Architectural style: Gothic, Romanesque Close by: Pisa Cathedral, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli Recommended accommodation: Hotel di Stefano |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987
