Battistero Neoniano (Battistero degli Ortodossi)

Welcome to the Neonian Baptistery, also known as the Baptistery of the Orthodox. This structure is widely considered the oldest monument in the city of Ravenna. …

The eight-sided plan of this building is not a random architectural choice; it is a profound piece of early Christian numerology. In this tradition, the number seven represents the days of the creation of the world. …

Now, look directly up into the center of the dome. This is the heart of the baptistery, a stunning mosaic depicting the baptism of Christ by Saint John the Baptist in the Jordan River. …

Surrounding the central baptism scene is a majestic ring of the twelve apostles. They are shown marching in a solemn procession, elegantly dressed in the pallium and tunics typical of Roman senators. …

Below the apostles is a third decorative ring consisting of eight architectural niches. These niches contain alternating images of the four Gospels and empty thrones. …

Descending from the dome to the walls, you will see a different medium used for decoration: stucco. In the sixteen niches of the upper level, there are large, white relief figures of Old Testament prophets. …

At the very center of the room stands the large octagonal baptismal font, made for baptism by full immersion. While the core of the font is original, parts of it have been modified over the centuries. …

As you prepare to leave the Neonian Baptistery, take one last look at the gradient of light that flows down from the dome. You have visited a place that has witnessed the transition of the Roman world from paganism to…