The Florence Baptistery is a building dedicated to John the Baptist and found in the centre of Florence. The classical influence of it's architecture is due to its construction being completed on the remains of old Roman buildings. http://www.italyguides.it/us/florence/baptistery.htm It is thought to be built during the 4th and 5th centuries, making it the oldest known building in the city. During the Middle Ages, the building was renovated and the interior decorated, while modifications to the exterior were done in the 12th century. http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/florence-baptistery

What makes this landmark truly historical and significant are the 3 sets of bronze doors. The north doors each have 10 panels depicting scenes from Bible stories, and 4 panels that represent the virtues. It was designed by Andrea Pisano during the late 14th century. The south doors were designed as a result of a public competition. Artists created proposals in according to the given religious theme and Lorenzo Ghiberti was chosen the winner. Each door has 14 panels depicting scenes from the Bible. Ghiberti also designed the infamous 'Gates of Paradise' doors in 1424 each of which have 5 much larger panels depicting the most famous Bible stories from the Old Testament. These doors encompass much of the Renaissance influence that was so prominent at the time.

The interior is decorated with medieval mosaics that are also a cause for much interest. The largest depicts the Final Judgement and are impressively sized.

Opening Hours:

• Monday - Saturday 12:15 - 19:00
• Sunday & 1st Saturday of the Month 08:30 - 14:00
• Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.

Dates of Closure:

• 1st January, Easter, 8 September, 24th & 25thDecember http://www.visitflorence.com/florence-churches/baptistery.html

Entry Fee:

• €3 http://www.florenceguides.com/museuminfo.htm
• Free for children under 6 http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/florence-baptistery

Getting to Florence you can take the Eurail into the city station or fly in to Aeroporto di Firenze. Eurail is more direct to the city itself and a more scenic option if you have the time.

To get to the baptistery there are many bus routes you can take once you are in the city. It is located right across from the Il Duomo.

• Bus routes 1, 6, 17, 14, 22, 23, 36, 37, or 71 http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/florence-baptistery

Take the time to see all the mosaics inside. There are seats available to sit and admire the artwork. The scenes, colours and style are very reflective of the contextual history. The original doors of the 'Gates of Paradise' are being restored in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo currently.