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Battistero di San Giovanni & Santa Reparata

Piazza di San Giovanni, Firenze, Toscana

Description

The Baptistery of Saint John (Battistero di San Giovanni) is a minor basilica built in the 11th century that stands across the Campanile di Giotto and Florence Cathedral. It is notable for its octogonal design, its three sets of sculpted bronze doors, and the mosaic covered interior of the dome. Santa Reparata is the former cathedral of Florence - the current one was constructed over it, but excavation have unearthed mosaics and bas-relief. The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo exhibits original artwork from the Cathedral, in particular many sculptures such as The Deposition, a pietà sculpted by Michelangelo. The "Ghiberti Pass" provides access to the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the ancient basilica of Santa Reparata.

Access & Transport

The monuments are very close to each other around Piazza di San Giovanni / Piazza del Duomo, in the center of the historical district. Buses C1 and C2 stop there. Access to the Baptisery is from the North Door (Martelli street side). The museum is at #9 Piazza del Duomo. Access to Santa Reparata is from the Cathedral “Porta Campanile” (south side, beside the Bell Tower entrance).

Instructions & Recommendations

At the time of this review update, the Baptistery was undergoing restoration of the mosaics of the vault. The monuments included in Ghiberti Pass can be visited within 3 calendar days from the date selected without time constraints except for Santa Reparata (time slot must be chosen at the time of purchase). If you wish to visit the Duomo as well, you may opt for the Brunelleschi Pass.

Meta review

Online reviews regarding the Baptistry are very consistent and highlight the gorgeous building architecture, the beautiful bronze door, and the magnificent mosaic under the dome. In contrast, the Crypt of Santa Reparata draws mixed reviews: interesting history and more of an archaeological site with some artwork thrown in but nothing unmissable. As for the museum, it comes as a very positive surprise for many. Visitors enjoy the modern conception with beautifully exhibited works of art and information notes. Queues are apparently shorter in the morning.

Environmental & Social

Minor carbon footprint from museum electricity consumption. Helps preserve the city's architectural and artistic heritages.

Conclusion

The Ghiberti Pass provides access to a very complimentary set of venues blending historical, architectural, and artistic aspects in venues that are completely different in style although they deal with the same theme and period. A must do for religious art lovers when in Florence.

Key positive

Gorgeous Baptistry architecture and dome mosaic

Educational aspect of the museum + well curated

All venues are close to each other

Key negative

Can be crowded

Suitability

The museum and Baptistry are accessible but there is a short staircase leading down to the ancient basilica.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Santa Reparata hours: 10h15 to 16h00 (afternoon only on Sundays). Closed on 25 Dec, 01 Jan, Easter

av. transport time:0h 15m

est. visit time:1h 45m

Regulated hours

Monday08:30 - 19:30

Tuesday08:30 - 19:30

Wednesday08:30 - 19:30

Thursday08:30 - 19:30

Friday08:30 - 19:30

Saturday08:30 - 19:30

Sunday08:30 - 19:30

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€15
Adult
15 - 64
€15
Child
7 - 14
€5
Infant
0 - 6
€0
Ghiberty pass: Museum, Baptistery, Santa Reparata

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