Baptistery of the Orthodox in Ravenna, detailed interior mosaic ceiling

Baptistry Of Neon

Baptistry of Neon Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Ravenna’s UNESCO Heritage

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Baptistry of Neon (Battistero Neoniano) in Ravenna, Italy, is a crown jewel of early Christian art and architecture. Built between the late 4th and mid-5th centuries CE, this octagonal baptistery is world-renowned for its dazzling 5th-century mosaics, unique architectural innovations, and profound religious significance. Located in the heart of Ravenna’s historic center, adjacent to the cathedral, it stands as a testament to the city’s pivotal role during the last days of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of Byzantine influence. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about visiting the Baptistry of Neon—from updated visiting hours and ticketing to the monument’s rich history, architectural features, religious meaning, and practical tips for an unforgettable visit.

Duomo di Ravenna Orthodox Baptistery exterior architectural details in Ravenna Italy

Introduction
Visiting Hours, Tickets & Reservation System
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Getting There & Nearby Attractions
Historical Overview & Architectural Significance
Artistic Highlights: Mosaics and Stucco Work
Religious and Cultural Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Resources & Virtual Tours
Summary and Travel Tips
References

Visiting Hours, Tickets & Reservation System

Visiting Hours

Open: Daily, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last admission 30 minutes before closing)
Closed: December 25 and select public holidays
Note: Hours may vary on holidays or during special events. Always confirm on the official Baptistry of Neon website or local tourism portals before your visit.

Ticketing and Combination Pass

Admission: The Baptistry of Neon can only be visited with the “Ravenna Mosaics” combination ticket. Single-entry tickets are not available.
Combination Pass Includes:
- Baptistry of Neon
- Basilica di San Vitale
- Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
- Archiepiscopal Museum and Chapel
- Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Price: €12.50 per adult (valid for seven days)
Discounts: Reduced rates for EU citizens ages 18–25 and free entry for children under 18
Where to Buy:
- Official online ticket portal
- In person at ticket offices (Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and Archiepiscopal Museum)

Mandatory Time-Slot Reservations:
Advance time-slot booking is compulsory, especially in high season (June–August) and on weekends. Select your preferred entry time when purchasing tickets online. All members of your group, including children, must be included in the reservation.

Free Admission Days:
Enjoy free entry on the first Sunday of each month and on select local holidays (e.g., March 8, April 25, June 2, July 23, August 30, Notte d’Oro, November 4) (ravennantica.it).

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Wheelchair Access: The Baptistry of Neon is wheelchair accessible via a lifting platform. Some interior spaces may be narrow due to the monument’s ancient structure.
Duration: Visits are limited to 5 minutes during peak periods to preserve the mosaics. Most visitors spend 30–60 minutes on site, including time for photos and interpretation.
Additional Services:
- Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) nearby
- Assistance for visitors with mobility issues can be arranged in advance
- Audio guides (including via the Audiala app) and guided tours available
Dress Code: Modest attire is required; shoulders and knees should be covered.

Getting There & Nearby Attractions

Location

Address: Piazza Duomo, 1, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy
Access:
- 15-minute walk from Ravenna train station
- Local bus routes serve the historic center
- Limited parking nearby (Via Guidarello Guidarelli, Piazza Baracca, Piazza Kennedy, Piazza Aldo Moro)

Nearby UNESCO Sites

Basilica di San Vitale: Renowned for its intricate Byzantine mosaics.
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: Famous for its star-studded mosaic ceiling.
Arian Baptistery: Offers a contrasting perspective on Christian doctrine and art.
Domus of the Stone Carpets: Features well-preserved Roman mosaics beneath the city.

Suggested Image: Exterior view of the Baptistry of Neon with Piazza Duomo in the background (alt: “Baptistry of Neon exterior in Ravenna city center”)

Historical Overview & Architectural Significance

Origins and Construction

The Baptistry of Neon is one of Ravenna’s oldest and most significant monuments. Construction began around 400 CE under Bishop Ursus, who also built the adjacent Basilica Ursiana. The baptistery was erected atop a former Roman bathhouse, symbolizing the Christianization of pagan spaces (Ravenna City Guide; The Byzantine Legacy). The mosaics and further enhancements were commissioned by Bishop Neon (c. 451–475 CE), from whom the monument takes its name (Atlas Obscura).

Architectural Features

Plan: Octagonal, with each side measuring just over 5 meters externally
Dome: Rises to approximately 11 meters; constructed with innovative clay tube techniques for lightness and stability (ravennamosaici.it)
Materials: Roman bricks, marble, porphyry
Interior:
- Marble-clad lower register
- Middle register adorned with monochrome stucco reliefs of Old Testament prophets
- Upper register and dome covered in spectacular mosaics

Artistic Significance

The mosaics are among the oldest and most important examples of early Christian art in the West (nomads-travel-guide.com). The dome’s central medallion features Christ’s baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, with the Holy Spirit descending as a dove. Surrounding this are the twelve apostles, depicted in a procession, reflecting the unity and universality of the Church. Vivid blues, greens, and gold tesserae create a shimmering, heavenly effect.

Moreover, the stucco cycle—depicting sixteen prophets in architectural niches—is a rare survival from late antiquity, seamlessly integrating with the mosaic program to symbolize the continuity between Old and New Testaments (ravennamosaici.it).

Suggested Image: Interior mosaic dome showing Baptism of Christ (alt: “Baptism of Christ mosaic Baptistry of Neon”)

Religious and Cultural Meaning

The Baptistry of Neon was central to the spiritual life of Ravenna’s orthodox Christian community during a time of theological conflict with the Arians (Ravenna Città del Mosaico). Its octagonal shape alludes to the “eighth day”—a symbol of resurrection and eternal life in Christian theology. The baptismal font once held in the center facilitated full-immersion baptisms, reflecting the ritual’s importance as an act of spiritual rebirth. The rich iconography—prophets, apostles, and Christ—serves as a visual catechism, blending Greco-Roman artistic traditions with distinctly Christian themes (Live the World).

Today, the Baptistry is recognized as part of Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage ensemble, celebrated for its preservation and role as a masterpiece of early Byzantine art (Ravenna Città del Mosaico).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Baptistry of Neon visiting hours?
A: Daily, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; last entry 30 minutes before closing. Always check official sources for updates.

Q: Can I buy a single ticket for the Baptistry of Neon?
A: No, entry is only via the “Ravenna Mosaics” combination pass.

Q: Is advance booking required?
A: Yes, mandatory time-slot reservations are required, especially in high season.

Q: How long can I stay inside?
A: Visits are limited to 5 minutes during busy periods.

Q: Is the Baptistry wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, via a lifting platform and accessible pathways.

Q: Are guided tours and audio guides available?
A: Yes, both options are offered; audio guides can be downloaded via the Audiala app.

Q: Are there free entry days?
A: Yes, on the first Sunday of each month and certain local holidays.

Visual Resources & Virtual Tours

Explore the Baptistry of Neon virtually on official tourism websites. High-resolution images and 360° tours are available, with descriptive alt text such as “Mosaic dome of Baptistry of Neon, Ravenna” to ensure accessibility. Photography (without flash) is permitted for personal use.

Suggested Image: Detail of apostle procession mosaics (alt: “Apostles mosaic Baptistry of Neon”)

Summary and Travel Tips

Plan ahead: Book your combination ticket and reserve your entry time well in advance.
Arrive early: Mornings are less crowded.
Dress appropriately: Modest attire is required.
Maximize your visit: Pair the Baptistry with nearby UNESCO sites for a full immersion in Ravenna’s mosaic heritage.
Accessibility: The monument is mostly accessible, but contact staff for any specific needs.
Stay informed: For the latest updates on hours, events, and accessibility, consult the official Baptistry of Neon page.