Founder: Founded in 1152 by architect Diotisalvi, the Pisa Baptistery is the largest baptistery in Italy and one of the most architecturally intriguing religious structures in Europe. It was built to serve as the ceremonial gateway to the Pisa Cathedral, where all faithful were baptized before entering the church.
Must-see highlights: Unmissable spots of the monument include the octagonal baptismal font, the marble pulpit sculpted by Nicola Pisano in 1260, a masterpiece considered foundational to the Renaissance, and the upper gallery offering panoramic views of the baptistry’s soaring dome and the nearby cathedral.
Current use: Today, the Baptistery is still used for ceremonial baptisms and remains consecrated.
Unique facts: Its double-domed structure creates an extraordinary echo lasting several seconds, turning every sound into a musical experience. It also represents a stylistic bridge between Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with construction spanning over 200 years and reflecting the evolution of medieval art and design.