Battistero

"Unlike most Baptistery buildings, Bergamo's Battistero has a rather unique story. Originally constructed in 1340 by the architect Giovanni da Campione, it wasn't always located in its current spot. Initially, it resided within the Santa Maria Maggiore Church in Bergamo Alta, the upper town. However, in 1661, the Battistero embarked on a series of relocations. It was disassembled and then reassembled twice in different locations, each time undergoing alterations. For a period, it even resided in the cloister of the Canonica. Finally, in 1898, the Battistero found its current home in Piazza del Duomo, the square facing the Bergamo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant'Alessandro Martire). Despite the relocations and modifications, the Battistero retains its core octagonal shape, a characteristic design for baptisteries. Step inside the Battistero, and you'll find yourself in a single, octagonal hall. The centerpiece is the Gothic font, the basin where baptisms traditionally take place. Look for the decorative features adorning the font. In the background, you'll also see an altar topped with a statue of Saint John the Baptist, the namesake of many Baptistery structures."

"Isn't usually open to the public, but fascinating because it's moved locations multiple times. Originally it was inside the Santa Maria Maggiore Church, but was deconstructed and rebuilt (poorly, with changes) twice before landing in its current spot in 1899."

"The baptistery, enclosed by a 19th-century gate, features an octagonal design. It sits on a 17th-century dark marble base, above which are 14th-century columns made of red Verona and red Musso marble, crafted by Campione’s workshop. "