Pistoia - San Bartolomeo in Pantano

"San Bartolomeo in Pantano" was founded between 726 and 764 by the Lombard physician Gaiduald on swampy ground (= pantano) . A Benedictian convent was established here under the protection of the Marquises of Tuscany.

In 1433 the Benedictines were replaced by Canons Regular. End of the 18th century the monastery was given to the Vallumbrosan Order, which remained here in 1810. Then church became a parish church.

San Bartolomeo in Pantano of today was erected mid 12th century, commissioned by Abbot Buono in 1159. The facade, divided into five compartments with arches, is characteristic for the Pistoiese Romanesque style. It is very much like the facade of Sant' Andrea, only a few hundred metres away.

Here is the lintel over the central door. The carving is attributed to Gruamonte (see Sant' Andrea). Depicted is the "Doubting Thomas".

John 20:25–27

"So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."

The names of the disciples are inscribed below.

Under the lintel (not seen from here) is inscribed
"RODOLFIN P. O. MCLXVII", what dates this work to 1167.