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Monument · Ravena, Emília-Romanha
Battistero degli Ariani
Small baptistery built in the time of Theodoric, between the late 5th and early 6th century. The dome shows the baptism of Christ and the twelve apostles on a golden background.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Battistero degli Ariani
The Battistero degli Ariani was built in the time of the Ostrogoth king Theodoric, from the late 5th century into the first half of the 6th. It was the baptistery of the former Arian cathedral, today the church of Spirito Santo, which stands beside it. The Ostrogoths followed Arianism, a Christian current that regarded the Son as subordinate to the Father.
The building is octagonal and small, made of brick. The interior decoration that survives is all in the dome, since the walls have lost their mosaics.
In the center of the dome, Christ, young and beardless, is baptized by John the Baptist. On the opposite side, the Jordan River appears as an old man seated. Around them, the twelve apostles walk toward a throne with a cross, on a golden background, with Peter and Paul at the front.
The theme is the same as in the Battistero Neoniano, but the golden background and the drawing of the figures show a different hand. After the Byzantines took the city, the building became a Catholic oratory.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 10 to 15 minutes.
Best time
Because it is small, any time works. It is managed by the State, with its own admission and opening times; check before you go.
How to get there
It is located on Vicolo degli Ariani, near Via Diaz, about an 8-minute walk from Ravena station and 5 minutes from Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.
Tip
Visit it after the Battistero Neoniano to compare the two domes. Admission is not included in the diocese's combined ticket.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Battistero degli Ariani
What does 'Arian' mean here?
It refers to Arianism, a Christian current followed by Theoderic's Ostrogoths that disagreed with the Catholic Church about the nature of Christ.
Is it included in the mosaics' joint ticket?
No. It's a state monument with its own ticket. Check opening times before going.
Is it worth visiting given how small it is?
Yes, for those interested in mosaics: the dome is intact and it's just a few minutes from Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.