The largest baptistery in Italy, begun in Romanesque style and finished with Gothic decoration, famed for acoustics and Nicola Pisano's pulpit.
Construction of the Baptistery began in 1152 under Diotisalvi and continued for more than two centuries, which explains its mixed style: Romanesque arcades below and Gothic gables and pinnacles above, designed by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. It was completed in 1363. It is the largest baptistery in Italy, measuring about 55 metres in height, and leans slightly toward the Cathedral. Inside, Nicola Pisano's hexagonal marble pulpit of 1260 is a landmark of early Italian sculpture, and the large octagonal font is by Guido Bigarelli. Custodians perform a short acoustic demonstration each half hour in which the dome sustains a sung chord.
| Admission | About EUR 5-7 (~$6-8) separately; confirm at opapisa.it |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily with seasonal variation; check opapisa.it |
| Address | Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy |
Why it matters
Italy's largest baptistery and the setting for Nicola Pisano's pulpit, a milestone of medieval sculpture.
Site facts
- Built
- 1152-1363
- Architect
- Diotisalvi (original); Nicola Pisano and Giovanni Pisano (later sculpture and upper levels)
- Style
- Romanesque / Gothic
- UNESCO listing
- True
Location
Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy
43.7233, 10.3943 View on map
Highlights
- Nicola Pisano's pulpit (1260)
- Dome acoustics
- Mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles
Tips for visiting
- Time the visit to the half-hourly acoustic demonstration
Accessibility
Ground floor accessible; the gallery is reached by stairs.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is the Baptistery?
About 55 metres, making it the tallest baptistery in Italy.