The church of San Giovanni Fuorcivitas in Pistoia is one of the city’s historic jewels. Located a short distance from the main gallery, it is one of Pistoia’s oldest Romanesque churches. Originally built outside the ancient medieval walls, over the centuries it was incorporated into the city’s urbanization and today faces one of the main streets.The church is best known for its north side, considered the true facade of the building. This side is decorated with white marble and serpentine from Prato, and features a rich central portal with an architrave depicting the Last Supper by master Gruamonte.Inside the church are works of art of great value. Prominent among them is the first example of glazed terracotta in the round made by Luca della Robbia. In the center of the nave is a marble stoup by Nicola Pisano, and there is also a polyptych by Taddeo Gaddi. Upon entering this church, one can easily get lost among these masterpieces, immersing oneself in an atmosphere of great beauty and spirituality.Despite having been integrated into the urbanization of the city, the church of San Giovanni Fuorcivitas still seems to carry with it its original name, "outside the city," as if to emphasize its unique character suspended in time. Visiting this church is a fascinating experience that allows one to discover the artistic and historical richness of Pistoia.
