Neonian Baptistery
Type:
Baptisteries,
Mosaics
Date:
Fifth century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Italy
Description:
Around 458, Bishop Neon (r. ca. 450–73) enlarged an octagonal baptistery in Ravenna, adding to it a dome and interior mosaics. The Neonian Baptistery is sometimes also called the Orthodox Baptistery to distinguish it from the later Arian Baptistery (ca. 500). A lower zone of stucco decoration features standing male figures, possibly prophets. Above these figures is a ring of mosaic decoration that alternates between thrones and altars with Gospel books. Above this is a ring with apostles carrying crowns. At the apex of the dome is the central medallion of Christ's baptism.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
2
Repository and Online Resources:
• For image galleries and video footage of the interior, visit the website of the Opera di Religione della Diocesi di Ravenna.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage page for the early Christian monuments of Ravenna.
Image Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
