The Saint John Baptistery is the oldest Christian building in France. It was built around 360 A.D. by order of Saint Hilaire, the first bishop of Poitiers and then rebuilt in the 7th century.
The most important feature of the original building is the octagonal pool, fed by an aqueduct, used for water baptisms. During the visit, you can admire the 6th century wall paintings as well as the small Merovingian archaeological museum.
Discover the 'Notre Dame walks' - just follow the coloured lines on the pavements starting at Notre Dame La Grande church, and look out for the helpful signposts along the way as you will discover exceptional historical monuments in the old town centre of Poitiers.
Opening 2012: Open from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2012 All year
Horaires 2012: April-September : 10.30am-12.30am and 3pm-6pm. Closed on Tuesday, except in July and August. October-March : 2.30pm-4.30pm, except on Tuesday. Closed on 1st January; 1st May and 25th December.
Prices 2012 : Adultes : 2.00 € Enfants : 1.00 € Groupes Adultes : 1.00 € Groupes Enfants : 1.00 € Free visit. Adult : 2€. Child and groups (10-60 persons) : 1€.
For guided visits, contact the tourist office of Poitiers.