Church of Saint John the Baptist

The first construction of the church of Saint John the Baptist dates back to the 5th century AD.  It was built on a fresh water source - the Cave of the Sibyl.  Later, around the sixteenth century, the church was rebuilt and enlarged on the existing small church.

The nativity of St. John the Baptist is celebrated on June 24.  It is on this day that the church (which remains closed during the year) opens to the public, welcoming a celebration where masses are held by the archpriest of the city and also other parish priests. The last mass is celebrated in the afternoon, and is followed by a procession, street markets, and shows, that conclude the evening.

The Church of Saint John the Baptist is not only special for this anniversary, but also for the Cave of the Sibyl, which is located 4.80 meters below the sanctuary. Inside it, there is a spring that, in pagan times, was used as a place of worship, for water, and, in Christian times, as a baptismal font.