Whether you're traveling to Italy or simply looking for a grand adventure, no exploration of the Roman Empire through the ages could be complete without including the Pantheon, one of the world’s oldest and most iconic monuments. Located in the heart of the Eternal City, Pantheon is a former temple to all the gods, immortalized for its astonishing feat of ancient engineering and architecture.
More than 2000 years old, it stands on a structure from the era of Emperor Hadrian, although much of its design has been attributed to Marcus Agrippa, who oversaw the reconstruction of Rome in the first century BC. The temple is a marvel of stone and brick, with a vast dome crowned by a huge oculus at the center that floods the vast interior with natural light.
The site was originally built in 27 BC, refashioned in the mid-2nd century AD, and then destroyed by fire in the year 80. Its current incarnation is almost entirely that of the reconstruction of the 2nd century and much of the original interior structure and decorations remain intact.
The outstanding feature of the Pantheon is its huge, domed ceiling that stretches a full 142 feet in diameter and is painted with a canopy of copper stars. The great dome features an opening at the top (the oculus), which is the only source of natural light. Inside the building, one can admire the marvels of Rome’s old architecture, including the two semi-spherical walls, a portico entrance with six fluted columns, and an interior of 18 columns in the Corinthian style. Much of this design is credited to Agrippa, who led the reconstruction of Rome in the first century BC.
The Pantheon is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Roman architects and engineers. An inscription on the entrance reads: “M Agrippa L F Cos Tertium FECIT,” which translates to: “Marcus Agrippa, Son of Lucius, Consul for the Third Time, Built This.” It is a stunning example of the precision and engineering knowledge of the ancient Roman Empire.
The Pantheon has been used as a church since the early 700s, making it one of the oldest churches in existence. Home to various religious treasures, including Renaissance frescoes and an altarpiece by Raphael, it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Rome.
Beyond its religious significance, the Pantheon offers a glimpse into the architecture, engineering, and engineering techniques of the Roman Empire. It is a great place to explore and appreciate the ingenuity and ambition of the ancient Romans. What’s more, its vast interior and domed ceiling offer a truly awe-inspiring view of one of the most renowned and well-preserved monuments from the Roman era.
Given its remarkable setting, Pantheon attracts a great many visitors each year, not only from all over Italy and beyond, but also from other parts of the world. Whether you’re a fan of history, an admirer of architecture, or simply looking for a unique and breathtaking experience, the Pantheon is an absolute must-see on your travels.
