Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti, Early Christian baptistery in Milan, Italy
The Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti is an early Christian building in Milan with an octagonal shape and domed roof. Inside stands a large ceramic baptismal font and the walls are decorated with mosaics.
The building was created during the early period of Christianity as a place for baptism ceremonies. A significant moment was the baptism of Saint Augustine by Saint Ambrose at this site.
The mosaics inside show religious scenes with the Chi Rho symbol, which was an early Christian sign. Visitors can see how the decoration tells stories of faith through images on the walls and dome.
The building is accessible through Milan Cathedral and sits in an archaeological area below the modern city. Wear comfortable shoes as the path involves stairs and corridors.
Baptism was performed by pouring water three times over the head, a specific technique for that time. This practice shows how different religious rituals were in the past.
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