Religious site
Baptistery of St. John
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The Baptistery of St. John is one of Florence's oldest and most revered religious structures, located in Piazza del Duomo opposite the cathedral. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries in the Florentine Romanesque style, it is renowned for its three sets of bronze doors, most notably the east doors dubbed the 'Gates of Paradise' by Michelangelo. The interior features a soaring dome covered in glittering Byzantine-style mosaics depicting scenes from the Last Judgment, with a colossal figure of Christ at the center. Visitors can also see the tomb of Antipope John XXIII and the magnificent floor inlay. The baptistery is where all Florentines, including Dante, were baptized, making it a site of profound historical and spiritual significance.
Don't miss
- Ghiberti's 'Gates of Paradise' (east doors) with gilded bronze reliefs
- Stunning Byzantine-style mosaic ceiling with Christ in Majesty
- Intricate marble floor inlay and geometric patterns
- Tomb of Antipope John XXIII by Donatello and Michelozzo
- Exterior of white, green, and red marble with three portals
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Baptistery of St. John
You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for current prices. book online to skip long queues). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inThe Best Tour in Florence: Renaissance and Medici Tales4.9★ · 11,686 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Most bookedFlorence in a Day: David, Cathedral & City Highlights Guided Tour4.6★ · 976 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$127 per personSee dates →
Top ratedDrawing and Watercolor Workshop in the Heart of Florence5★ · 111 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$58 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Opening hours vary; check the official site before visiting.
- Photography is allowed but no flash inside.
- Modest dress is required (shoulders and knees covered).
- Audio guides are available for rent.
A bit of history
Construction of the Baptistery began in the 11th century on the site of a Roman temple. It was consecrated in 1059 and served as the city's cathedral until the 13th century. The famous bronze doors were created by Andrea Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Common questions
Are the 'Gates of Paradise' the original doors?
The originals are in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo; the ones on the baptistery are replicas.
How much does it cost to enter?
Ticket prices vary; check the official website for current rates.
Can I take photos inside?
Yes, but without flash.
Is the baptistery wheelchair accessible?
There is a step at the entrance, but a ramp is available for wheelchair users.
How long should I spend here?
About 30 minutes to an hour.
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