Baptistery of San Giovanni
Florence's ancient octagonal Baptistery, famed for its 'Gates of Paradise' bronze doors and dazzling mosaic ceiling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Baptistery of San Giovanni
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Florence's ancient octagonal Baptistery, famed for its 'Gates of Paradise' bronze doors and dazzling mosaic ceiling.
"A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with stunning mosaics and iconic bronze doors."
🎒 No Backpacks Allowed
Leave large bags at your accommodation or use a locker. Small purses are usually fine.
🎟️ Consider a Pass
Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti Passes grant entry. Check which one best suits your plans.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gates of Paradise
East Doors
Lorenzo Ghiberti's breathtaking bronze reliefs depicting biblical stories. A true Renaissance masterpiece.
Mosaic Ceiling
Interior Dome
A dazzling golden mosaic depicting the Last Judgment and other biblical scenes. Stunning artistry.
Octagonal Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Iconic octagonal shape clad in striking white Carrara and green Prato marble. A Romanesque marvel.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Passes & Backpacks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 No Backpacks Allowed
Leave large bags at your accommodation or use a locker. Small purses are usually fine.
🎟️ Consider a Pass
Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti Passes grant entry. Check which one best suits your plans.
👂 Amazing Acoustics
Experience the incredible sound quality inside; they sometimes do demos.
⏳ Quick Visit Possible
Even with partial restoration, it's a relatively short but impactful visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 No Backpacks Allowed
Leave large bags at your accommodation or use a locker. Small purses are usually fine.
🎟️ Consider a Pass
Brunelleschi, Giotto, or Ghiberti Passes grant entry. Check which one best suits your plans.
👂 Amazing Acoustics
Experience the incredible sound quality inside; they sometimes do demos.
⏳ Quick Visit Possible
Even with partial restoration, it's a relatively short but impactful visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Baptistery of San Giovanni for its stunning architecture, particularly the iconic 'Gates of Paradise' bronze doors and the breathtaking mosaic ceiling. Its historical significance as one of Florence's oldest buildings and the site of many famous baptisms adds to its allure. While some restoration work may be ongoing, it remains a highly recommended and atmospheric visit.
"The Battistero di San Giovanni is one of the oldest buildings in Florence. It is an architectural wonder which apparently took its inspiration from the Pantheon. Even though there is currently restoration work underway, it is well worth visiting. Beautiful mosaics and bronze doors including the stunning Gates of Paradise."
Keith
"Beautiful chapel to St. John located right across the street from the Duomo in Florence. Part of our guided tour, I enjoyed the rich history of this building pointed out by the guide, including the Roman burial area underneath the floor"
Cory Miller
"Baptistery of St. John standing in front of the Cathedral of Florence and its famous for its ceiling mosaics. These are now in restauration process so cannot be seen, but anyway, if you buy a Brunelleschi pass, you can visit the Baptistery of St. John too, together with Dome and Campanille. One can only admire the only restored part of the mosaics above the altar, which is quite impressive. All together, now it's a 15 min short visit only."
Tomi Valny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Baptistery of San Giovanni is located in Piazza San Giovanni, directly across from the Florence Cathedral (Duomo). It's easily accessible on foot from most central Florence locations. If arriving by public transport, buses stop frequently near the Duomo area.
Yes, it's part of the Piazza del Duomo complex, making it incredibly convenient to visit alongside the Duomo, Giotto's Campanile, and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.
Absolutely! Santa Maria Novella train station is about a 10-15 minute walk from the Baptistery, making it very accessible for day-trippers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry to the Baptistery requires a ticket. It is often included in combined passes like the Brunelleschi Pass, Giotto Pass, or Ghiberti Pass, which also grant access to the Duomo, Dome climb, and Bell Tower.
Ticket prices vary depending on the pass chosen. A comprehensive pass that includes the Baptistery, Dome, and Bell Tower typically costs around €30. It's best to check the official Duomo complex website for current pricing and pass options.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by religious services or restoration work. Generally, it's open daily from around 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While some passes include the Baptistery, it's often possible to purchase a specific ticket for just the Baptistery if you don't plan on visiting other monuments. However, the combined passes offer better value if you intend to explore the entire Duomo complex.
Yes, backpacks are not allowed inside the Baptistery. Visitors must also adhere to a dress code, which typically means covering shoulders and knees.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll be captivated by the stunning golden mosaic ceiling depicting the Last Judgment and other biblical scenes. The famous bronze doors, especially Ghiberti's 'Gates of Paradise,' are also a major highlight.
Yes, even with partial restoration, the Baptistery is highly recommended. The restored sections of the mosaics are impressive, and the overall atmosphere and architecture are still captivating.
A visit can be quite short, often around 15-30 minutes, especially if you're not climbing any towers. It's a focused experience on the interior art and architecture.
Photography is generally allowed inside, but without flash to protect the delicate mosaics and artwork. Always check for any posted signage regarding photography rules.
It's one of Florence's oldest buildings, consecrated in 1059, and was the site of baptisms for many famous Florentines, including Dante Alighieri. It served as the city's cathedral for centuries.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its striking marble facade and the 'Gates of Paradise,' offers fantastic photo opportunities. Inside, the mosaic ceiling is a must-capture, though flash is prohibited. 
Drone photography is strictly prohibited in the historic center of Florence, especially around the Duomo complex, to ensure safety and preserve the monuments.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography. The golden hour can cast a beautiful glow on the marble exterior.
Try capturing the Baptistery from different perspectives in Piazza San Giovanni, including shots that frame it with the Duomo or Giotto's Campanile. The details on the bronze doors are also worth close-ups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a pass that includes other nearby attractions like the Duomo or Campanile, as these offer more variety for a family outing. The relatively short visit time means kids are less likely to get restless. It's a great opportunity to discuss art, history, and the importance of baptism in a tangible way.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the 'Gates of Paradise' by Lorenzo Ghiberti, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture that tells complex biblical narratives. The interior mosaic ceiling, a vast depiction of the Last Judgment, is a testament to medieval artistry and religious devotion. Exploring the Baptistery offers a direct connection to Florence's rich past and its evolution through different eras.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Bronze Doors
While the original 'Gates of Paradise' are now housed in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo for preservation, incredibly detailed replicas are in place on the Baptistery. Visitors can spend considerable time admiring the craftsmanship and storytelling within these bronze masterpieces. The sheer scale and artistic brilliance of these doors are a testament to the Florentine Renaissance and a highlight for any visitor.
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Inside, the Baptistery's most breathtaking feature is its golden mosaic ceiling. Created over several decades by artists like Cimabue and his workshop, it depicts a vibrant and detailed vision of the Last Judgment, surrounded by scenes from the Old Testament and the life of St. John. The acoustics within the octagonal space are also remarkable, contributing to its sacred ambiance.
Historically, this was the site where many prominent Florentines, including the poet Dante Alighieri, received their baptism, solidifying its profound importance in the city's cultural and religious narrative. Despite ongoing restoration efforts, the Baptistery offers a powerful connection to Florence's deep past.
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