Baptistery

It is a religious building that is dedicated to baptism, cataloged within minor basilicas, and is particularly recognized for its three sets of bronze doors, which have great artistic value. Its eight sides represent the 'eight days, the time for the Resurrection of Christ, a symbol for the eternal life that was given through baptism when one passes from the life of sin to the life of Christ. Until the 19th century, all Catholic citizens of Florence were baptized in this baptistery.

The construction is attributed to Theodolinda, queen of the Lombards, to commemorate the conversion of her husband, King Autario. It is the second basilica in the city, after that of San Lorenzo, outside the city wall. Inaugurated on March 4, 897, the granite pilasters are believed to have been taken from the Roman forum in Florence, where 'Republic Square' currently stands. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, three double bronze doors were added, with marble and bronze statues on them, an indication of what the baptistery was for the inhabitants, which was initially the most valuable construction, even above the Cathedral.

The interior of the Baptistery guides you to its dome, the lack of light and decoration stands out. Of this interior decoration, the works on the vault draw attention, where you can see a large mosaic representing scenes of the Last Judgment, made by Venetian artists between the 13th and 14th centuries. It may be that they intended that, to take you to heaven from earth. Not to be missed is the great tomb of Baltasar Cossa, who in the 15th century was known as the antipope John XXIII.