Baptistrery of San Giovanni in Fonte, Early Christian baptistery in Naples, Italy
The Baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte is an early Christian baptismal structure in Naples with an octagonal interior measuring roughly 7 by 7 meters and topped by a domed ceiling decorated with intricate mosaics. The interior includes a specially designed basin adapted for the baptismal practices of that time.
This structure dates to the late 4th century and is attributed to either Bishop Severus of Naples or Emperor Constantine the Great. It stands as one of the oldest surviving baptismal buildings from early Christianity in Europe.
The dome displays a central Chi Rho symbol against a blue background with stars, which reflects early Christian religious imagery from Naples' past. Visitors can observe how this symbolism connects the space to the region's role in spreading Christianity.
Access the structure through a chapel located behind the cathedral's main apse or via the northern entrance connected to the archiepiscopal palace. Plan time to examine the mosaics and interior details carefully, as lighting conditions can vary throughout the day.
The baptismal basin was intentionally built to a shallow depth of around 45 centimeters to allow only surface washing during the baptism ritual. This design reveals how early Christian baptismal practices differed from later full-body immersion traditions.
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