The Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista is one of Lonato's most prominent landmarks, a beautiful baroque building in the heart of the historic district. It is crowned by a magnificent cupola that stands at 196.9 feet (60 metres) off the ground. Admire the architecture then tour the interior to see its rich collection of paintings, sculptures and altarpieces.
The first church on this site was built in the 14th century, while construction of the current building started after the death of its architect in 1762.
Take photos of the ornate white marble exterior with its statues of saints, including Santa Caterina and Santa Barbara. Look above the window to see the frieze of angels holding a coat of arms.
Inside, there are 13 altars to explore, each one decorated with frescos. Study the magnificent altarpieces, including the carving of John the Baptist and Christ before the crowd. Look up into the dome’s interior to see scenes from the Old and New Testaments. There are also depictions of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the four authors of the New Testament gospels.
Among the stunning religious paintings to observe is an interpretation of the Assumption. According to believers, this is when the bodily form of Mary, the mother of Jesus was taken up into heaven.
Go to the sacristy to see the 16th-century triptych, with a figure of Christ at its centre. On the door to the sacristy is a portrait of Paulo Soratini, the basilica’s designer. Marvel at the grand white marble baptismal fonts surrounded by statues of St. John and St. Zeno.
The Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista is open every day, from morning until evening and is free to enter. Note that it closes for a brief spell at noon.
The church is located in Lonato’s historic district, close to the city’s main train station. Nearby attractions include the House of the Podestà, the Civic Tower, Zambelli Place and the Piazza Martiri della Libertà.