Executioner of John the Baptist

Hotpants Executioner of John the Baptist

A highlight of the Sala del Tesoro is the monumental cross and the altar from the baptistery that was made using 250 kg of silver. The altar is the work of several generations of artists from 1366 to 1483.

As the main altar for the baptistery, it not surprisingly shows events from the life of John the Baptist. It covers his full biblical history from the annunciation to Zacharias and the visitation to the grizzly end. The decapitation of John by Andrea del Verrocchio shows intricate detailing in the armor of the soldiers while the executioner inexplicably works naked but for a tight pair of hot-pants.

About the Author

Henk Bekker is a European travel writer specializing in transportation, cultural destinations, and practical travel advice for visitors to Europe. His work focuses on clear, up-to-date guides that simplify complex travel systems such as public transportation, tickets, and routes.