the small temple of san giovanni al sepolcro
This small temple used to be a place of worship for pilgrims on their pilgrimage towards the Holy Land and to this day it is one of the most popular places for tourists in Brindisi.
reproduction of the jerusalem 'holy sepulchre'
The Temple of San Giovanni al Sepolcro (St. John at the Sepulchre) dates back to the 11th century. It was built as a reproduction of the shrine of the 'Holy Sepulchre' in Jerusalem. This building used to be a place of worship for pilgrims on their pilgrimage towards the Holy Land and to this day it is one of the most popular places for tourists in Brindisi.
In the temple, there are eight columns arranged in a circular direction. Most of them date back to Roman times. The building hides symbols and interpretations that create a very mysterious atmosphere. Observe for example the façade, the temple's circular internal structure, the beautiful frescoes of saints and the remains of Roman times.
symbols and meanings
The temple is modelled on the architectural pattern of the Aedicule of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and was considered as a place of pilgrimage, controlled by a monastic order of Jerusalem. The North main entrance is characterized by a small porch with two columns on the sides, supported by two column-bearing lions. The peculiarity of this porch lies in the constant theme of the fight between good and evil. This could be the Christian warrior who fights against the Saracen or the deer fighting against the dragon.
Inside the temple many frescoes are depicted. For example Saint Blaise who protects against sore throat, Saint Anne that helps women in labour and Saint George who protects the humble and the weak of society. This last saint was painted several times because when a fresco faded, it was covered again by another painting.
don't forget the outside and garden
Just out of the temple and turning to the back garden, you can notice the presence of some Latin epigraphs. Among the epigraphs there is one dating back to the time of the unification of Italy. On the portal wall, on the left side, several symbols are engraved dating back to ancient times, such as a triple belt with three concentric circles, the inscription of the name Stephanvs and a symbol of the Masons, a triangle with an eye inside. In the garden, in spring and summer time, you can admire typical local crops such as tomatoes, lavender, thyme, rosemary, mint and incense.
nice to know
This was the first museum in Brindisi thanks to Giovanni Tarantini (a Brindisi priest and a archaeologist, 1805-1889 ) who rebuilt part of the abandoned building.
how to get there
The Temple of San Giovanni al Sepolcro is located in the heart of the historic city center and is best accessible on foot during a Brindisi City Walk.
It should be open every day from 8 AM to 8 PM, but closed on Wednesday.
Entrance free age <10 anni; children from 11 - 18 years 1€; adults 3€. Reduced ticket when combined with entrance for Monumento al Marinaio d'Italia (5€ all together).
l' hospitale del turista
Opposite the temple you will find a cozy souvenir shop called l'hospitale del turista with local products. Where you can also get a nice drink. There is a very nice and Brindisi-loving owner.
