The Battistero is beautiful both inside and out, and is well worth a visit. It would perhaps be a bonus if there were mirrors available to visitors so that we could admire the upper walls and ceilings without risking falling over backwards! Lovely place to visit.
An architectural wonder as the columns get narrower the higher it goes, beautiful, copious wall and dome paintings, an exceptional structure unlike anything else I've seen in Italy
The last time we visited Parma was 26 years ago on a somewhat hurried trip from Venice with our four year old. I always vowed that I'd return to do this jewel of a town more justice. The Baptistery epitomises this contained place for me. It has a harmony of proportions that is so pleasing to the eye, and then one is rewarded more by the gleaming frescoes inside and the incredible much photographed ceiling. Like the city itself, the Baptistery is a joy to behold and totally awe-inspiring.
Once inside it's a very strange place. It's all brown and beiges with a wood feel to it. It is very different from a typical church experience, and feels very original/unique. It's a little mystical inside, and not to be missed.
We paid the six euro fee to enter. We were given a book in English that described what was inside. There were many frescoes and some statues. We were the only people there and sat in chairs while we read the book and looked up and down decorated walls.
Great building to visit ! On a beautiful square near shopping and restaurants. Go in the morning when the chidren sing on the square.
Adjacent to the Cathedral stands the beautiful Baptistry, made of pink Verona marble.This is considered the finest work of the architect Benedetto Antelami, unfortunately it was closed during our visit in Parma.Well, it leaves us no choise but visit it again sometime in the future...Please remember that both the Cathedral & the Baptistry are closed from 12:30 till 3pm.Cathedral= no entry fee.Baptistry = 6 euro.
This is a good alternative to the Baptistry of Florence, which is currently closed for renovation. The frescoes are beautiful. You can pay 2euro to hear a recorded explanation, though it is a bit hard to follow. I sat in the Baptistry with a friend just watching the l might change and it seemed to illuminate different sections of the room.
During my trips I visited the battistero..ticket too much expensive ...in 5 minutes the visit was finished
Besides the Teatro Farnese, this is the other must see. Huge medieval building that is beautifully decorated inside with very old but well maintained scenes. Striking architecture as well.