Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte

The Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte is an impressive piece of architecture located in the city of Pistoia in Tuscany, Italy. It was constructed in the 11th century by Pope Sergius III, and is the oldest baptistery in the region. Most of the building is made of white stone, with the exception of the chequered marble cladding on the chancel. Inside the building there are four splendid mosaics (started in 1207), depicting episodes from the Old Testament. The most important of these is a Last Judgment, with Jesus Christ surrounded by the apostles. There are also a few sculptures of reptiles and monsters, believed to represent the powers of evil. Visitors can also admire the bell tower, of Gothic origin, and the clock tower which dates back to the 15th century. The Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte is a great piece of architectural history to admire.