Baptistery of Butrint, Early Byzantine baptistery in Butrint, Albania
The Baptistery of Butrint is a circular early Byzantine structure approximately 14.5 meters in diameter, built with Egyptian granite featuring sixteen columns arranged in two concentric circles and twenty-four half-columns along the walls. At its center stands a cross-shaped font with two interior steps designed for baptismal ceremonies.
This structure dates to the 6th century and was discovered by Italian archaeologists in 1928 at the site of the ancient city. It was built during a period when the city was undergoing significant transformation under Byzantine influence.
The mosaic floor displays seven concentric circles around the central font, decorated with Christian motifs of peacocks and deer drinking from fountains. These images held meaning for early worshippers who entered to take part in baptism.
The structure remains covered with sand most of the year to protect its mosaics from water damage caused by seasonal lagoon fluctuations. Visitors should expect limited views of the decorative floor and timing of visits may need to account for site conditions and accessibility.
The granite columns were imported from Egypt and transported across vast distances, revealing the wide-reaching trade connections of this ancient city. This effort to source materials from so far away demonstrates the importance of the settlement during its period.
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