Florence Baptistery, Religious monument in Piazza del Duomo, Italy.
Description
The Florence Baptistery is a medieval baptistery standing before the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy. The octagonal structure shows three large bronze doors and exterior walls of white Carrara marble and green Prato marble arranged in geometric patterns.
History
Construction began in the 11th century, with the main structure standing by 1059 under Pope Nicholas II. The bronze doors came later: the south door in the early 14th century, the north door and the famous east door in the 15th century.
Culture
The octagonal plan of the building follows ancient models and symbolizes the eighth day, when Christ rose from the dead. Inside, a gold-shimmering mosaic covers the entire dome and shows scenes from the life of John the Baptist alongside the Last Judgment.
Practical
The building opens every first Sunday of the month for baptism ceremonies, hosting up to four children each time. Visitors can enter the interior most days and should plan some time to view the mosaics at a comfortable pace.
Did you know?
Michelangelo is said to have called the eastern bronze door the "Gates of Paradise" when he first saw the ten panels. Today the originals are preserved in the Opera del Duomo Museum, while copies stand at the entrance.
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