Battistero di San Pietro, Baptistry and church in central Asti, Italy
The Battistero di San Pietro is a church complex in Asti consisting of four connected buildings, including a square church, a rotunda with tower, and a medieval cloister. The ensemble now houses the Archaeological and Paleontological Museum of the city as well as a marble baptismal font from the 16th century.
Construction began in the 12th century under Bishop Landolfo da Vergiate, inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem following the First Crusade. The building reflects the religious ideal of recreating important Christian sites in Italy.
The windows display terracotta decorations with human figures, plant patterns, and symbolic objects that reflect the artistic tastes of medieval times. These visual details tell of the religious and everyday thoughts of people who prayed and gathered here.
The site is easily reached in the city center and offers visitors access to a church with medieval architecture and an attached museum. The different wings of the complex are connected to each other, so you can explore the entire area well.
The complex was once the headquarters of the Gerosolimitano Priory, which managed a large network of hospitals across several northern Italian regions. This religious organization played an important role in providing medical care and support to pilgrims and travelers.
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