The Arian Baptistery was built between the end of the 5th and the beginning of the 6th century by the Ostrogoth King Theodoric, who also constructed a basilica for Arian worship, now known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, located nearby.
The baptistery is situated more than two meters below the street level due to subsidence, the sinking of the ground that has historically affected various areas of the city.
From the outside, the small octagonal building appears very simple and unassuming. Clad in plain bricks, its structure is enlivened by the presence of four small apses and windows at the upper level.
Originally, there was a porticoed corridor, an ambulatory, decorated with columns around the building, of which nothing remains. Over time, the furnishings, stucco work, marbles, and most of the mosaic decorations have also disappeared.
However, the most exquisite jewels, the mosaics of the dome inside the baptistery, have survived to this day and can be admired in all their glory.
Upon entering, at the center of the floor, there is a simple circular marble slab marking the spot where the baptismal font once stood.
Looking up at the dome, at the center there is a medallion featuring the Baptism of Christ. Jesus is immersed up to his waist in the waters of the Jordan River; to the right is Saint John, dressed in simple skins, and to the left, the elderly man with a pair of crab claws on his head, represents the River Jordan. Above Christ, a dove pours the Holy Spirit upon him.
In the outermost circle, the twelve apostles are depicted: ten holding the crown of martyrdom, while Saint Peter, to the right of the throne of God, offers keys, and Saint Paul, to the left, holds a scroll of parchment, symbolizing the word of Christ.
Language: English