Battistero (Baptistery)

Location

Pisa
Italy
IT
General info: 

The circular Baptistery in Pisa is the largest of its kind in Italy, with a circumference of 104 metres / 348 feet.
The building commenced in 1153 by Deotisalvi. More than 100 years later, it was worked on further and the upper part was created in a rather Gothic style and a large dome was added shortly after. The vast interior is fairly plain and features one of the first great Pisano pulpits, sculpted in 1260 by Nicola Pisano and a massive, carved font.

One of the most interesting features in the Baptistery is the simply astonishing acoustics, which echo around the interior. To enjoy these wonderful acoustics it is worth arriving early in the morning, before the building gets too busy. When a choir sings in the Pisa Baptistery it is memorable to say the least.

Getting there: 

The Battistero is located in the centre, right next to the tower.

Costs: 

Admission: 4€
Opening hours: April to September - 08:00 to 19:40, March and October - 09:00 to 17:40, November to February - 09:00 to 16:40

You might be interested in

Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the deified spirits of late 19th century Emperor Meiji and his wife is the most famous shrine in Tokyo. In this wonderfully serene and austere shrine the city sounds are quickly replaced by a tranquil forest.

On over 80 hectares in the heart of Rome stretches an English-type garden, named the Villa Borghese. It was made in 17th century, when Cardinal Scipione Borghese decided to turn his vineyard into a large landscape garden.

Sensō-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple and located in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is Tokyo's oldest temple, and one of its most significant. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon (the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy) .

Pantheon is one of the best-preserved of all Roman buildings. It was completed around 14AD and has been in continuous use ever since which is probably why it is still in a very good shape.

Roppongi Hills is a small city within a city. The popular complex opened in 2003 and there's a lot going on — a garden, a cinema, loads of shops, cafés and restaurants.

The Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the Pope, but its global fame this church owes to the works of arts in its interior.