Baptistery of St John
A monumental octagonal baptistery in Pisa known for its acoustics, and its Florentine counterpart famed for the 'Gates of Paradise' and golden mosaics...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Baptistery of St John
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental octagonal baptistery in Pisa known for its acoustics, and its Florentine counterpart famed for the 'Gates of Paradise' and golden mosaics.
"The acoustics inside are truly unique and worth hearing; a must-visit beyond just the tower!"
Pisa or Florence? Decide!
Know which Baptistery you're visiting! Pisa's is with the Leaning Tower, Florence's is a separate gem.
Book Combo Tickets
For Pisa, a cumulative ticket covers the Baptistery, Tower, Duomo & more. Saves money!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Baptistery of St. John (Pisa)
Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa
A massive, octagonal Romanesque baptistery, famous for its incredible acoustics and intricate marble facade.
Acoustic Demonstrations
Inside the Baptistery of St. John (Pisa)
Experience the unique echo! Staff often demonstrate the baptistery's exquisite acoustics with singing every 30 minutes.
Gates of Paradise (Florence)
Baptistery of St. John, Florence
Lorenzo Ghiberti's masterpiece bronze doors, depicting biblical scenes with unparalleled detail.
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Stunning Mosaics (Florence)
Baptistery of St. John, Florence
Gilded ceiling mosaics dating back to the 12th century, depicting biblical narratives in vibrant gold and glass.
+1Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Pisa vs. Florence Baptistery
Beat the Crowds & Save
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pisa or Florence? Decide!
Know which Baptistery you're visiting! Pisa's is with the Leaning Tower, Florence's is a separate gem.
Book Combo Tickets
For Pisa, a cumulative ticket covers the Baptistery, Tower, Duomo & more. Saves money!
Listen to the Echo
Don't miss the acoustic demonstration inside Pisa's Baptistery – it's magical!
Check Renovation Status
Florence's Baptistery may have art covered due to restoration. Check ahead if mosaics are key.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pisa or Florence? Decide!
Know which Baptistery you're visiting! Pisa's is with the Leaning Tower, Florence's is a separate gem.
Book Combo Tickets
For Pisa, a cumulative ticket covers the Baptistery, Tower, Duomo & more. Saves money!
Listen to the Echo
Don't miss the acoustic demonstration inside Pisa's Baptistery – it's magical!
Check Renovation Status
Florence's Baptistery may have art covered due to restoration. Check ahead if mosaics are key.
Beware of Vendors
In Pisa, street vendors can be persistent. Stay firm but polite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Baptistery of St. John in Pisa for its impressive architecture and unique acoustic demonstrations, noting it's a worthwhile visit beyond the Leaning Tower. Florence's Baptistery is lauded for its stunning 'Gates of Paradise' and mesmerizing golden mosaics, though ongoing renovations can sometimes obscure parts of the interior. +2
"Didn't have a time for visit this place but from pictures i saw it seems quite empty inside and very simple. From outside its quite impressive though, 55 m high and 107 m in circumference, one of the largest in the World. Echo inside is very unique and its worth to hear the crew demonstration of this exquisite acoustic every 30min."
Tomi Valny
"It was a great place to see along with the rest of the monuments in the plaza. Fair warning, beware of the people selling things that are not at a stand. If the police are walking around they will hide what they are selling and close their bags and head the opposite direction. It is really comical. The building itself has a lot of history and the inside is beautiful."
Spencer Atkinson
"Such a beautiful place. We were lucky that the choir began singing while we were on the upper level and the acoustics were incredible. The sound seemed to come from every direction at once. The building is well maintained and the crowds not bad at all. Don't just come to see the tower. This chapel is a must visit"
Gary Griffith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Baptistery of St. John in Pisa is located in the Piazza dei Miracoli, easily accessible by foot from Pisa Centrale train station (about a 20-minute walk) or via local buses. Many visitors arrive on day trips from Florence. +1
Yes, the Baptistery of St. John in Florence is centrally located in Piazza del Duomo, a short walk from the Florence Santa Maria Novella train station and many major attractions.
While technically possible, it's ambitious. Pisa and Florence are about an hour apart by train. It's generally recommended to dedicate separate time to each city for a more relaxed experience. +1
The most convenient way is by train. Frequent regional trains connect Pisa Centrale and Florence Santa Maria Novella stations, taking approximately one hour.
In Pisa, there are parking lots near Piazza dei Miracoli, though they can be busy. In Florence, parking near the Duomo is limited and expensive; using public transport or walking is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need a ticket to enter the Baptistery of St. John in Pisa. It's often included in a cumulative ticket that also grants access to the Leaning Tower, Duomo, and Camposanto Monumentale.
A cumulative ticket for Pisa's attractions, including the Baptistery, typically costs around €27, but prices can vary. It's best to check the official website for current pricing and booking options.
Yes, entry to the Baptistery of St. John in Florence usually requires a ticket, often bundled with access to the Duomo and Giotto's Bell Tower.
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for both Pisa and Florence, especially during peak season, to secure your entry time and avoid long queues.
Opening hours vary seasonally for both Pisa and Florence Baptisteries. It's essential to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Baptistery of St. John in Pisa is renowned for its impressive size, Romanesque architecture, and particularly its extraordinary acoustics. Visitors can experience this unique sound phenomenon during scheduled demonstrations.
Inside Florence's Baptistery, marvel at the stunning 12th-century golden mosaics on the ceiling and the famous bronze 'Gates of Paradise' by Lorenzo Ghiberti.
Crowds can vary, but it's generally less crowded than the Leaning Tower itself. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can offer a more serene experience.
As with most religious sites, respectful attire is expected. Photography rules may vary, so check for signage. In Florence, some artwork might be covered due to ongoing restoration.
Allow at least 30-60 minutes for the Baptistery in Pisa to appreciate its architecture and experience the acoustics. In Florence, 30-45 minutes is usually sufficient, depending on your interest in the mosaics and doors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Baptistery alongside the Leaning Tower and Duomo in Piazza dei Miracoli. The exterior details and scale are impressive from various angles.
Photography policies can change. Generally, interior photography is allowed in Pisa's Baptistery, but flash might be prohibited. In Florence, check for specific restrictions, especially if renovations are ongoing.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the Baptistery's grandeur. Golden hour can create beautiful warm tones on the marble.
In Pisa, try to frame the Baptistery with the Leaning Tower in the background. In Florence, focus on the intricate details of the 'Gates of Paradise' and the shimmering ceiling mosaics.
For interior shots, especially in Florence's Baptistery with its mosaics, use a wider aperture to let in more light and a higher ISO if needed. A tripod might be helpful if allowed, but check regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Florence, the 'Gates of Paradise' offer a visual storytelling opportunity for kids, though the intricate details might be better appreciated by older children. The shimmering mosaics are also captivating. Be prepared for potential restoration work that might limit some views.
Ensure children are respectful of the sacred space and follow any photography guidelines. 🏛️ History & Art Buffs
Florence's Baptistery is a treasure trove of Renaissance art, with Ghiberti's 'Gates of Paradise' being a pivotal work. The 12th-century mosaics are a stunning display of Byzantine influence and early Florentine artistry.
+1 The building itself is a testament to Florence's rich cultural heritage and its role as a cradle of the Renaissance. 🚶 Solo Travelers
Florence's Baptistery is also easily explored independently. It's a chance to immerse yourself in art and history at your own pace.
+1 Consider joining a guided tour if you want deeper historical context, or simply wander and absorb the atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Baptistery of St. John in Pisa: A Masterpiece of Romanesque Architecture
One of the most captivating features of Pisa's Baptistery is its exceptional acoustics. The domed interior, with its unique shape and hard surfaces, creates a remarkable echo. For centuries, this phenomenon has been showcased by guides or choir members who sing short notes, allowing visitors to experience the sound reverberating around the vast space. This acoustic marvel is a highlight for many visitors and a truly unforgettable part of the experience.
While often overshadowed by the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery is a significant historical and architectural site in its own right. It served as the place for baptisms for centuries, connecting generations of Pisans to their faith and heritage. Exploring its interior offers a moment of awe and a deeper appreciation for the artistry and engineering of the medieval period.
Florence's Baptistery of St. John: Gates of Paradise and Golden Mosaics
+1Step inside, and you'll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of the Baptistery's ceiling, covered in glittering 12th-century mosaics. These vibrant gold and glass tesserae form intricate biblical narratives, creating a celestial canopy that has inspired awe for centuries. The sheer artistry and the shimmering effect of the gold are truly mesmerizing, offering a profound spiritual and visual experience.
+1It's important to note that parts of the Baptistery, especially the interior artwork, may be undergoing restoration. While this means some areas might be covered, it also highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve this invaluable historical treasure. Even with potential coverings, the 'Gates of Paradise' and the remaining visible mosaics offer an unparalleled glimpse into Florentine art and history.
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