Baptistery Cremona
A stunning 12th-century octagonal Baptistery in Cremona, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, famous for its unique 'hanging crocodile'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Baptistery Cremona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 12th-century octagonal Baptistery in Cremona, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, famous for its unique 'hanging crocodile'.
"A must-see if you visit Cremona, offering great value with its combined ticket."
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get the most bang for your buck! A €10 ticket covers the Baptistery, Bell Tower, and Diocesan Museum. :ticket:
🧐 Look Up!
Don't forget to admire the ceiling and the 12th-century statue of the Archangel Gabriel. :eyes:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Octagonal Architecture
Interior
Marvel at the unique octagonal design, symbolizing resurrection and new life.
Sixteenth-Century Font
Center of the Baptistery
Admire the monolithic red marble baptismal font, a masterpiece from 1527.
Romanesque & Lombard-Gothic Mix
Exterior and Interior
Appreciate the blend of styles, from bare brickwork to elegant marble coverings.
The Hanging Crocodile
Interior
Discover the intriguing and symbolic crocodile suspended from the ceiling.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bundle Your Tickets
Understand the Symbolism
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get the most bang for your buck! A €10 ticket covers the Baptistery, Bell Tower, and Diocesan Museum. :ticket:
🧐 Look Up!
Don't forget to admire the ceiling and the 12th-century statue of the Archangel Gabriel. :eyes:
🐊 Curious Crocodile
Spot the mysterious crocodile hanging inside – a unique and symbolic artifact!
🚶♀️ Explore the Piazza
The Baptistery is right next to the stunning Cathedral and Torrazzo tower. Plan to see them all!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
Get the most bang for your buck! A €10 ticket covers the Baptistery, Bell Tower, and Diocesan Museum. :ticket:
🧐 Look Up!
Don't forget to admire the ceiling and the 12th-century statue of the Archangel Gabriel. :eyes:
🐊 Curious Crocodile
Spot the mysterious crocodile hanging inside – a unique and symbolic artifact!
🚶♀️ Explore the Piazza
The Baptistery is right next to the stunning Cathedral and Torrazzo tower. Plan to see them all!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cremona Baptistery for its elegant octagonal structure and exquisite roof, noting the excellent value of the combined ticket which includes the bell tower and museum. While some find the Italian explanations challenging, the historical and architectural significance is widely appreciated. The unique 'hanging crocodile' is a memorable highlight for many.
"10 euro admission fee covers the baptistery bell tower and diocesan museum. Very elegant octagonal structure and roof was exquisite. Explanation are in italian so i have no idea what it is about, But all baptistery basically detector namesake purpose"
Wing Au
"Cremona is situated in Lombardy region and it's the capital of the province of Cremona.
The city of Cremona is especially noted for its musical history and traditions, including some of the earliest and most renowned luthiers (as violin makers are called), such as Giuseppe Guarneri, Antonio Stradivari, Francesco Rugeri, Vincenzo Rugeri, and several members of the Amati family.
The Baptistery of Cremona is a building that originated in 1167. A previous baptismal structure probably stood in the area of the present presbytery of the Cathedral, in the center of two buildings, perhaps co-cathedrals.
Built in a Romanesque (and Lombard-Gothic) style with the height of 34 meters, it's 20,5 meters in diameter with an octagonal design, as is often the case with baptismal buildings, signifying a particular symbolic reference to both “on the eighth day”, day of the Resurrection, day without a sunset, and to an ancient reference to the cross which can be perfectly inscribed in an octagon: a form, therefore, which alludes both to the Passion and to the Resurrection and in this way a connection is made between the Easter of the Lord and the life of the Christian through the sacramental sign of Baptism.
The edifice mixes Romanesque and Lombard-Gothic styles, the latter evident in the preference for bare brickwork walls. To the 16th century restorations belong the marble cover of some walls, the pavement and the baptismal font (1531) and the narthex (1588) of the entrance, in Romanesque style, work by Angelo Nani.
The interior has a 14th-century Crucifix, over the St. John altar, and two wooden statues portraying "St. Philip Neri" and "St. John the Baptist" by Giovanni Bertesi. Over the ceiling is a 12th-century statue of the Archangel Gabriel.
More than 150 luthiers still live and work in Cremona. This town of 73,000 inhabitants is also the home to the Violin Museum and the School of Violin & Viola Makers.
* Photos courtesy of Internet and Facebook. Thanks!"
Dinh Tuan
"Very impressive place. With 10€ you can visit: Tower, Battistero and Museo. It’s a must see if you visit Cremona."
Bruno Dominoni de Araujo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Baptistery is located in the heart of Cremona, adjacent to the Cathedral in Piazza del Comune. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the city center. If arriving by car, look for parking near the historic center.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark in Cremona's main square, Piazza del Comune, right next to the Duomo (Cathedral) and the Torrazzo tower. You can't miss it!
Absolutely! Cremona is about an hour and 53 km from Tabiano Castello, making it a perfect day trip destination to explore its art and music heritage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A combined ticket costing around €10 grants access to the Baptistery, the Bell Tower (Torrazzo), and the Diocesan Museum, offering excellent value for exploring Cremona's historical sites.
While not always strictly necessary, booking in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time. The combined ticket is highly recommended.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information, especially if you plan to visit on a specific day.
The Baptistery has historical architecture, so accessibility might be limited in certain areas. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The octagonal plan is a common feature in baptisteries and symbolizes the 'eighth day' of Resurrection, representing new life and the connection to Easter.
The Baptistery showcases a blend of Romanesque and Lombard-Gothic styles, with original brickwork and later 16th-century marble coverings.
A preserved crocodile is suspended from the ceiling, a symbolic artifact found in some churches, adding a unique and intriguing element to the visit.
Inside, you can find a 14th-century Crucifix, wooden statues by Giovanni Bertesi, and a 12th-century statue of the Archangel Gabriel.
Yes, the combined ticket typically includes access to the Torrazzo (bell tower), offering panoramic views of Cremona.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Baptistery, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or signs. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it's prohibited.
Capture the octagonal interior, the detailed baptismal font, the exterior architecture, and the iconic Piazza del Comune. The light can be beautiful in the afternoon.
The 'hanging crocodile' offers a truly unique photo opportunity that stands out from typical historical site pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The combined ticket also includes the Bell Tower, which can be an exciting climb for older kids, offering great views of the city. 🎶 Music Lovers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Romanesque Meets Gothic
The octagonal plan is a key symbolic feature, representing the eighth day of creation and the Resurrection, a central theme in Christian baptism. This shape is not just aesthetic but deeply meaningful, connecting the physical structure to spiritual concepts. The interior is further enhanced by elements like the 14th-century Crucifix and various statues, contributing to its sacred atmosphere.
The Symbolism of the Crocodile
+1 This practice, while seemingly unusual today, has historical roots in various cultures and religions, often symbolizing power, ferocity, or even the overcoming of evil. In a religious context, it can represent the triumph of Christ over the forces of darkness or the devil. This unique artifact adds a layer of mystery and historical curiosity to the Baptistery. It’s a talking point that sparks conversation and encourages visitors to delve deeper into the symbolic language of religious art and architecture. The crocodile's presence is a testament to the diverse and sometimes enigmatic traditions that have been incorporated into sacred spaces throughout history.
+1Cremona: A City of Music and Luthiery
Visiting the Baptistery can be part of a broader exploration of Cremona's rich cultural tapestry. Consider visiting the Violin Museum and the School of Violin & Viola Makers to fully appreciate the city's connection to music. The harmonious blend of art, architecture, and music makes Cremona a truly unique destination.
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