The San Giovanni Baptistery is situated to the left of Ascoli Piceno Cathedral. It is considered one of the best examples of Romanesque art in Italy.
Baptistery of San Giovanni Ascoli Piceno
Useful information
Address: Piazza Arringo, 19, 63100 Ascoli Piceno. Phone: +39 392 1122001. Opening times: . Ticket price: Free.
History and description
The Baptistery of San Giovanni was probably built in the 4th century, in the time of Constantine the Great. It is not certain that there was a building on the site before. It is obvious, however, that for the outer structure, built in the 11th century, materials were reused.
The square foundation is made of large blocks of travertine marble. The cross dome is decorated with blind triforas.
The interior has an octagonal floor plan. The light comes in through the lantern.
What to see
In the center of the church is a large vessel, dating from the 4th or 5th century. It is here that baptism by immersion used to take place.
The way the building is constructed is symbolic. The square foundation represents the earth, the round dome heaven, while the octagonal central section symbolizes baptism as the connection between the two.