San Giovanni Battista, Praiano, Medieval church in Praiano, Italy.
San Giovanni Battista is a Romanesque church in the centre of Praiano, with a rectangular plan and a vaulted ceiling. Italian Baroque elements appear inside, not on the exterior. The maiolica floor is decorated with plant and animal motifs, and a pipe organ by Neapolitan makers stands within.
San Giovanni Battista dates to the 11th–12th centuries and was once the main church of the surrounding area. Its first documented mention is a 1296 bill of sale recording it under the patronage of two Amalfi families. As the settlement grew, eight further churches were built, ending its role as the sole parish church.
The church takes its name from Via San Giovanni, the narrow lane where it stands in central Praiano. It was once the main church of the surrounding area; as the settlement grew, eight more churches were built. The first legal record is a 1296 bill of sale, when patronage belonged to two Amalfi families.
The building sits in the center of Praiano on Via San Giovanni and is easily reached on foot. Access is straightforward, and the location gives a sense of daily village life.
Inside sits an organ crafted by makers from Naples, representing an important part of the community's musical life. This instrument has contributed to religious celebrations and events over many years.
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