Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista (Church of San Giovanni Battista), Rimini

The Church of San Giovanni Battista is a Baroque-style Roman Catholic church with deep historical roots and artistic significance. Positioned near the iconic Arch of Augustus, it is one of the city's most important religious landmarks.

The church was built on the ruins of an early Christian basilica dedicated to San Stefano, originally commissioned in the 5th century under the patronage of Galla Placidia. The basilica was destroyed in the 8th century, and by 1144, a new church dedicated to John the Baptist was erected on the site. Over the centuries, the church underwent various transformations, with a major Baroque-style renovation between 1767 and 1772 under the design of Gaetano Cupioli, commissioned by the Discalced Carmelites, who had taken over its administration in 1573. Following the suppression of the Carmelite order in 1797, the church was briefly managed by the Capuchin friars before being designated as a parish in 1805.

The interior of San Giovanni Battista features a single nave, exquisitely adorned with late Baroque stuccoes crafted by Antonio Trentanove. The church also boasts an impressive collection of 17th and 18th-century artworks, making it an essential stop for art enthusiasts exploring Rimini. A notable centerpiece is the wooden crucifix housed in a stunning stucco altarpiece by Trentanove with angelic figures. The crucifix’s exact origin is debated, with suggestions ranging from the 15th century to influences from the Giotto school.

San Giovanni Battista is not only an architectural marvel but also a spiritual and cultural hub. Its connection to Rimini’s artistic heritage is further solidified by its inclusion in the city's Baroque itinerary, featuring works by prominent artists such as Cagnacci, Trentanove, and Cosimo Piazza.

This richly decorated church embodies centuries of history and artistic achievement, offering a profound experience for visitors seeking to delve into Rimini's religious and cultural past.