History
Formerly thought to be a mausoleum or a pagan temple converted into a church, the Paleochristian Baptistery of Santa Maria Maggiore was actually erected in the 6th century AD, most likely by the Byzantines at the end of the Gothic War (535-553).
The baptistery was perhaps flanked by a cathedral, of which the numerous archaeological excavations conducted so far have found no traces.
Following the suppression of the ancient diocese of Nuceria in the early 7th century, the baptistery was converted into a church. Medieval sources—the earliest of which dates back to 841—refer to the monument first as a parish church (pleban church), and later as a collegiate church (archpriestly), under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Salerno.
Starting from the late Middle Ages, the monument underwent numerous restoration and consolidation works, still visible today in the perimeter walls. However, these interventions did not alter its original structure, which continues to lend the building a mysterious charm.
