The Baptistery of St. John, Florence

The Baptistery of St. John is one of the oldest buildings in the city, constructed between 1059 and 1128. It's renowned for the three sets of bronze doors. Observe how the eight lower panels of the south doors depict the virtues of hope, faith, charity, humility, fortitude, temperance, justice, and prudence. The most famous set, the east doors, are a copy; the originals are being preserved in the Duomo's museum. You still get a sense of their importance and you can admire the depiction of "The Story of Joseph." Inside the baptistery, be sure to look up at the domed, mosaic ceiling. To visit The Baptistery of St. John and get the most from your holiday in Florence, create itinerary details personal to you using our Florence holiday maker.