BATTISTERO DEL DUOMO
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A superb baptistery, decorated with remarkable frescoes, a marvel to discover in Padua.
Although monumental, Padua Cathedral, built in the shape of a Latin cross, doesn't take long to visit. However, the adjacent 12th-century baptistery is well worth a visit. Built in the 12th century, it is entirely decorated with frescoes dating from 1375 to 1378, signed by Giusto de Menabuoi, a disciple of Giotto. Particularly noteworthy is the fresco that covers the interior of the great dome. This is a scene depicting Christ surrounded by angels, a major piece around which one of Italy's most complete series of 14th-century paintings is built. The frescoes illustrate key episodes from the Old and New Testaments, including the destiny of the Virgin Mary and the journey of Jesus of Nazareth, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem to his crucifixion. You'll also discover representations of some 30 venerated local saints, as well as the four evangelists - St. Mark, St. Luke, St. John and St. Matthew - associated with their distinctive symbols. The apse of the baptistery is adorned with some forty additional scenes, notably from the Apocalypse and Pentecost, enriching the symbolism of the place. Giusto de Menabuoi's work is remarkable, both in terms of the colors used and the expressions attributed to the figures. A visit to the site would not be complete without a look at the baptismal font, dated 1260. Finally, it's hard not to linger over the superb polyptych decorating the high altar.
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