Pistoia Baptistery
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 11 January 2024
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The Pistoia Baptistery or Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte is one of the most memorable landmarks in the city of Pistoia in Tuscany.
Opened in 1361, the octagonal building bears a striking resemblance to the more widely acclaimed Florence Baptistery which was built around 200 years earlier. The striped marble exterior is similar to that of the nearby San Giovanni Fuoricivitas. |
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The Pistoia Baptistery, also known as the Battistero di San Giovanni, is a beautiful religious building located in the town of Pistoia, in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is an exceptional example of Romanesque architecture and serves as a significant cultural and historical landmark in the city.
The Pistoia Baptistery was constructed in the 12th century and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It is situated near the Pistoia Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, forming a central part of the city's religious complex. The baptistery is built in a Romanesque style, featuring a square base with rounded apses on three sides.
The exterior of the Pistoia Baptistery is adorned with white and green marble, creating an attractive geometric pattern that is typical of Tuscan Romanesque architecture. The main portal is richly decorated with sculptures depicting religious figures and biblical scenes.
The interior of the baptistery is strikingly simple yet elegant, with a large central baptismal font and an ambulatory with small chapels around the perimeter. The dome above the baptismal font features frescoes from the 14th century, portraying scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist.
The Pistoia Baptistery was constructed in the 12th century and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It is situated near the Pistoia Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, forming a central part of the city's religious complex. The baptistery is built in a Romanesque style, featuring a square base with rounded apses on three sides.
The exterior of the Pistoia Baptistery is adorned with white and green marble, creating an attractive geometric pattern that is typical of Tuscan Romanesque architecture. The main portal is richly decorated with sculptures depicting religious figures and biblical scenes.
The interior of the baptistery is strikingly simple yet elegant, with a large central baptismal font and an ambulatory with small chapels around the perimeter. The dome above the baptismal font features frescoes from the 14th century, portraying scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist.
History
The construction of the Pistoia Baptistery began in the early 12th century and was completed in the mid-14th century. The building was influenced by the architectural styles of the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Florence. The baptistery underwent restoration and preservation efforts over the centuries to maintain its historical and artistic significance.
Key features and nearby attractions
- Architecture and Art: The Romanesque architecture and frescoes of the Pistoia Baptistery are a treat for history and art enthusiasts.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors interested in learning about the history, architecture, and art of the baptistery.
- Religious Site: The Pistoia Baptistery is still in use as a place of worship, and visitors can attend Mass and participate in religious ceremonies.
- Nearby Attractions: Pistoia is a charming town with a medieval atmosphere and several other landmarks worth exploring, such as the Pistoia Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Vescovi.
- Accessibility: The baptistery is centrally located in Pistoia and is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
- Opening Hours: The baptistery may have specific opening hours, so it's advisable to check the schedule before visiting.
Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte
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City: Pistoia
Province: Pistoia Region: Tuscany Opened: 1361 Architectural style: Gothic Close by: Pistoia Cathedral, Pistoia Bell Tower Recommended accommodation: Hotel Patria |
