category of places

Battistero di San Giovanni

About

The Battistero di San Giovanni is one of the defining monuments of Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, celebrated as the largest baptistery in the world. Construction began in 1152 under the architect Diotisalvi, whose signature still appears on an internal pillarOpera della Primaziale Pisana. Its circular plan and lower Romanesque level reflect his original design, while the upper tiers—completed in the 14th century by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano—introduce refined Gothic elements. This blend of styles gives the baptistery its distinctive silhouette, crowned by a dome that creates remarkable acoustics inside. The interior is simple yet striking, with a central baptismal font and Nicola Pisano’s celebrated pulpit. Standing beside the cathedral and the Leaning Tower, the Battistero offers visitors a powerful encounter with medieval craftsmanship and the spiritual heart of Pisa.

Pisa Italy

Location

Battistero di San Giovanni, known as the Pisa Baptistery, stands majestically in Piazza dei Miracoli, the UNESCO-listed Square of Miracles on Pisa's northern outskirts within the ancient city walls. As the world's largest baptistery, this circular Romanesque-Gothic marvel rises beside the Cattedrale di Pisa, serving as its companion structure with an octagonal baptismal font at its heart. Immediately surrounding it are the Leaning Tower with its iconic tilt, the fresco-adorned Camposanto Monumentale, and the Cathedral Museum, all amid lush lawns perfect for photos, with Porta Santa Maria gateway leading to the historic centre's vibrant streets and Arno River walks.

Battistero di San Giovanni

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