San Giovanni Battista, Racconigi, Baroque parish church in Racconigi, Italy.
San Giovanni Battista is a parish church in Racconigi, considered the town's duomo for its size. It has a single nave with two major chapels at the transept and four minor chapels, and an interior height of 30 metres at the octagonal dome. A massive bell tower stands on the right side near the apse, housing four bells in D-flat.
The current building was designed by architect Francesco Gallo to replace a 13th-century structure that previously occupied the site. Construction took place between 1719 and 1730, with the church receiving formal consecration in 1770.
The dedication to Saint John the Baptist is echoed in the main altar, which Francesco Gallo designed in marble with bronze ornaments; the altarpiece by Claudio Francesco Beaumont shows the baptism of Jesus. In a tribune beside the presbytery the Savoy family attended Mass during their stays at Racconigi, and three windows carry their coat of arms, a gift of the royal house.
Access to the church is typically available during daylight hours when regular services are taking place. Visitors should be aware that this is an active place of worship, and opening times may vary depending on scheduled services and religious events.
An octagonal stone baptismal font dating from 1473 survives from the earlier church and was created by the Zabreri brothers. This font remains a rare example of medieval craftsmanship and continues to be displayed in the church today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,346 contributors worldwide.
