Diagram showing the rite of baptism in ancient Church (Milan, Italy)

This illustration is taken from a diagram displayed in the excavations beneath the cathedral in Milan, Here archaeologists have excavated remains from the Medieval and Late Antique periods including a portion of the structure and pool of the baptistery that stood in the fourth century. Now called S. Giovanni in Fonte (St. John [the Baptist] in the Font), the baptistery was once part of the cathedral complex of the late Roman city.

This illustration shows the moment when the catechumen is lowered into the water three times assisted by a deacon and presbyter. In the upper portion the newly baptized stands before the bishop who anoints him with oil.

The diagrams in this series are based on the descriptions of the rite of baptism in the writings of Ambrose of Milan, specifically De mysteriis and De sacramentis.

Follow me on Twitter @arturoviaggia

Done