The Pantheon in Rome – All You Need to Know

Q: How many Pantheon buildings are there?

The term "pantheon" can refer to any building dedicated to all gods or a group of gods. However, when people discuss "Pantheon" as an architectural landmark, they generally refer to two famous structures: the Pantheon in Rome, Italy, and the Pantheon (or Panthéon) in Paris, France. These two buildings are the most well-known and historically significant Pantheons, but it's worth noting that the term could be applied to other buildings or temples dedicated to multiple deities in various cultures.

Q: How big is the Pantheon?

The Pantheon in Rome is an impressive structure with a sizable footprint. The building's diameter, equal to the interior height from the floor to the oculus, measures 43.3 meters (142 feet). This creates a sense of perfect symmetry, as a sphere with a diameter of 43.3 meters could fit precisely within the interior space. The dome, an engineering marvel, also has a diameter of 43.3 meters. The portico, featuring 16 towering Corinthian columns , extends 33.1 meters (108.6 feet) in width and 13.6 meters (44.6 feet) in depth, contributing to the building's grandeur and scale.

Q: How many columns does the Pantheon have?

The Pantheon in Rome features a total of 16 Corinthian columns supporting its porch. Each column stands 11.8 meters (39 feet) tall and weighs 60 tons, showcasing the impressive craftsmanship of Roman architecture. These majestic columns were quarried in Egypt and transported to Rome, reflecting the dedication and skill employed in the Pantheon's construction, a detail that continues to captivate history and architecture enthusiasts.

Q: How many times has the Pantheon been rebuilt?

The Pantheon in Rome has been rebuilt twice. The original Pantheon was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in 27-25 BCE as a temple dedicated to all the gods of Ancient Rome. After being destroyed by a fire in 80 CE, it was rebuilt but faced another devastating fire in 110 CE. The Pantheon we know today is the third iteration of the building, reconstructed by Emperor Hadrian in 126 CE. This version, showcasing the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, has withstood the test of time and remains an iconic architectural masterpiece.

Q: Pantheon – how to pronounce it?

The word "Pantheon" is pronounced as "pan-thee-uhn." The stress is on the first syllable, with the 'a' sounding like the 'a' in "cat" and the 'th' pronounced as in "theater." The 'e' in the second syllable has a long 'ee' sound, and the final syllable 'uhn' is pronounced like the word "on."

Q: How has the Pantheon changed over time?

The Pantheon has evolved from a Roman temple for all gods (27-25 BCE) to a Christian church (609 CE), surviving fires and reconstructions. Once housing Roman gods, it now serves as a place of worship and houses prominent figures' tombs.

Q: How many gods are in the Pantheon?

The term "Pantheon" originates from the Greek words "pan" (meaning "all") and "theos" (meaning "gods"). The Pantheon in Rome was initially built as a temple dedicated to all the gods of Ancient Rome. However, the exact number of gods represented in the original Pantheon is unclear, as the Roman Pantheon included numerous deities from various sources, including Etruscan, Greek, and indigenous Roman gods. Here are five important Roman gods and their corresponding Greek names: Jupiter (Zeus): The king of the gods, Jupiter was the god of the sky, thunder, and justice. Juno (Hera): Jupiter's wife and the queen of the gods, Juno was the goddess of marriage and childbirth. Mars (Ares): The god of war and a guardian of agriculture, Mars was an important deity for the Romans. Venus (Aphrodite): The goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, Venus was venerated by both the Romans and Greeks. Neptune (Poseidon): Neptune was the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, wielding great power in the Roman Pantheon. When the Pantheon was converted into a Christian church in 609 CE, it became dedicated to the Virgin Mary and all the Christian martyrs, and the worship of Roman gods ceased. Consequently, the Pantheon no longer houses representations of multiple gods but serves as a place of worship for the Christian faith.

Q: Which Roman gods did Christians adapt into their saints?

While Christians didn't directly adapt Roman gods into their saints, they did adopt some pagan customs and symbols. So instead, here are seven examples of Roman gods with similar attributes or domains to Christian saints or figures: Jupiter (Zeus) - God of sky and thunder, similar to God the Father in Christianity. Mars (Ares) - God of war, shares traits with St. Michael the Archangel, a warrior and protector. Neptune (Poseidon) - God of seas, parallels St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and seafarers. Apollo - God of music, poetry, and light, has similarities with St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians. Mercury (Hermes) - Messenger of the gods, has traits in common with St. Gabriel the Archangel, a divine messenger. Venus (Aphrodite) - Goddess of love, shares aspects with St. Valentine, the patron saint of love and relationships. Diana (Artemis) - Goddess of the hunt and wildlife, bears similarities to St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters. These comparisons are not direct adaptations but rather highlight shared attributes or domains between Roman gods and Christian saints or figures.

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The Pantheon is an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman gods and embodies the greatness of the Roman Empire. It is assumed that it was built in A.D. 2 on another temple, built-in 27 B.C. by Marcus Agrippa. Nowadays, this ancient crowning glory can be found at Piazza della Rotonda.

Contents

1 Interesting Facts About the Roman Pantheon
2 The Architecture of the Roman Dome
3 Opening Hours
- 3.1 Audio Guide
- 3.2 The 5 Most Important Details Inside the Pantheon to Pay Attention to
4 What Attractions are Near the Pantheon?
5 Hotels Near Pantheon
6 FAQ about Roman Pantheon
7 Pantheon in Paris vs. Rome

Interesting Facts About the Roman Pantheon

Ancient Origins: The Pantheon we know today is actually the third iteration of the building. The first Pantheon was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in 27-25 BCE as a temple to all the gods of Ancient Rome. After being destroyed twice by fires in 80 and 110 CE, the Pantheon was rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 126 CE, resulting in the structure we see today.
Architectural Marvel: The Pantheon boasts the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, with a diameter of 43.3 meters (142 feet). This incredible feat of engineering has withstood the test of time, remaining intact for nearly 1,900 years.
Oculus: At the apex of the Pantheon’s dome lies the oculus, a 9-meter (30-foot) circular opening that serves as the building’s only source of natural light. The oculus also allows for ventilation, and rainwater entering the building is drained through a series of holes in the floor.
Perfect Proportions: The Pantheon’s design is based on the concept of ideal symmetry, with the dome’s diameter equaling the height from the floor to the oculus. This means that a perfect sphere could fit within the interior of the building.
Unique Materials: The concrete used in the Pantheon’s construction consists of a mixture of volcanic ash, lime, and pieces of volcanic rock. This unique combination resulted in a lightweight yet strong material that contributes to the building’s longevity.
Original Use: Initially a temple, the Pantheon was converted into a Christian church in 609 CE by Pope Boniface IV. It was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and all the martyrs, and this transformation saved the building from destruction during the Middle Ages.
Illustrious Burials: The Pantheon serves as the final resting place for several notable individuals, including the painter Raphael, composer Arcangelo Corelli, and two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II, and Umberto I.
Christian Artifacts: Inside the Pantheon, visitors can admire several important Christian artifacts, such as the 15th-century bronze doors, a Byzantine icon of the Madonna and Child, and the high altar.
Rotunda Inscription: The inscription on the Pantheon’s façade reads “M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIUM·FECIT,” which translates to “Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, consul for the third time, built this.” Despite Emperor Hadrian’s reconstruction, he chose to keep the original inscription as a nod to Agrippa’s legacy.
Pentelic Marble: The Pantheon’s interior features a stunning array of Pentelic marble imported from the quarries of Mount Pentelikon in Greece. This high-quality marble was also used in other iconic structures, such as the Parthenon in Athens.
16 Corinthian Columns: Supporting the Pantheon’s porch are 16 massive Corinthian columns, each measuring 11.8 meters (39 feet) tall and weighing 60 tons. These columns were quarried in Egypt and transported to Rome on wooden sleds, demonstrating the dedication to craftsmanship in the building’s construction.
Enduring Influence: The Pantheon’s design has inspired countless structures over the centuries, including the U.S. Capitol building, the British Museum’s Reading Room, and the Jefferson Memorial. Its architectural legacy continues to impress and influence architects and designers worldwide.

The Architecture of the Roman Dome

The Pantheon is a large rotunda covered with a hemispherical dome diameter of 45 meters (147,6 ft). Architects had done an excellent job and achieved a harmonious balance between building height and diameter. Due to engineering calculations, the dome does not press down on the visitors with its mass and solemnly towers over them like the sky.

Construction of the Pantheon in Rome 3d model

The height of the building is almost equal to its diameter and amounts to 42 meters (137,8 ft). Air and light penetrate inside the Pantheon through the oculus in the center of the dome with a diameter of 9 meters (29,5 ft), called “the Eye of the Pantheon”, the main feature of the temple.

Oculus – The Eye

The inside surface of the Roman dome is decorated with 140 coffers. A series of these recessed panels have decorative and constructive value, significantly reducing the weight of the arch.

the Eye of the Pantheon Dome in Rome

It has been calculated that the dome’s weight is 5000 metric tons. But gradually, with the increasing height of the dome, its thickness and weight are reduced. For example, the thickness of the concrete mass at the bottom is 6 meters (19,7 ft), and near “the Eye of the Pantheon,” it is only 1,5 meters (4,9 ft).

The Entrance

The greatness of the temple is emphasized by a portico of sixteen granite Corinthian columns at the entrance. A Roman portal, dating from the Roman era, leads you inside. The walls, holding the dome, are faced with marble and divided into two tiers from the inside. The lower tier, in its turn, consists of 7 identical niches, to facilitate the construction.

Pantheon Structure Rome

Tombs

Pantheon is one of the few buildings of ancient Rome which has survived unchanged. All the time, it has attracted the attention of artists, scientists, and the simple public. Michelangelo considered it to be a divine creation. Raphael wanted to be buried in the temple, which, in his mind, was a place where people and goods were united. So the great artist was buried in the Pantheon.

In addition to Raphael Santi, the Roman Pantheon houses the tombs of several other notable individuals:

Vittorio Emanuele II: The first king of a united Italy, who ruled from 1861 until his death in 1878. You can also see his monument in front of the Altar of the Fatherland in Piazza Venezia.
Umberto I: The son of Vittorio Emanuele II, he served as the king of Italy from 1878 until his assassination in 1900. You can also see his equestrian statue while walking around Villa Borghese.
Margherita of Savoy: The wife of Umberto I and the queen consort of Italy during her husband’s reign, she was also the first queen of a united Italy.
Annibale Caro: An Italian poet and writer, best known for his translation of Virgil’s “Aeneid.”

These tombs highlight the Pantheon’s significance as a resting place for prominent figures in Italian history, art, and culture.

From an architectural viewpoint, the Pantheon is almost the only monumental structure, which harmoniously combines grandiosity and elegance. Its image had a considerable influence on the architecture of that time and future as well.

decorations inside Pantheon in Rome

Fix price transfer from the Fiumicino Airport to Rome

€60.00

Despite past centuries with their gains and losses, the Pantheon, as before, is absolute proof of the greatness of the Roman Empire.

Opening Hours

A ticket to visit the Pantheon is not required because the entrance is free. Opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm daily.

Not many tourists go to the temple in the first hour after opening – this is the time, when we recommend our readers to visit the place.

Visiting the Roman Pantheon offers a unique opportunity to witness an architectural masterpiece with an unparalleled historical legacy, connecting you to the ancient world and the fascinating stories of those who shaped it.

Audio Guide

Using an audio guide inside the Pantheon can be a great idea for those who want to learn more about the building’s history, architecture, and significance in-depth. An audio guide can provide fascinating insights and details that may not be immediately apparent during your visit.

Additionally, using an audio guide allows you to explore the Pantheon at your own pace and focus on the aspects that interest you the most. If you appreciate a deeper understanding of the sites you visit, an audio guide is a valuable resource to enhance your Pantheon experience.

The 5 Most Important Details Inside the Pantheon to Pay Attention to

Oculus: The dome’s 9-meter (30-foot) opening provides natural light and ventilation, a unique engineering feature that brightens the interior.
Raphael’s Tomb: Renowned painter Raphael’s resting place is a poignant reminder of the Pantheon’s connection to Italy’s cultural history.
High Altar: Adorned with gold and precious stones, this altar symbolizes the Pantheon’s transition from a pagan temple to a Christian church.
Marble Interior: Imported Pentelic marble from Greece adds a touch of luxury and elegance, highlighting the wealth and power of ancient Rome.
Coffered Dome: The pattern of square recesses reduces the dome’s weight, showcasing Roman ingenuity and architectural mastery.

What Attractions are Near the Pantheon?

There are many important sights near the Pantheon, and here is a list of the top 5 that I recommend visiting first:

Piazza Navona: A beautiful and bustling square featuring Baroque architecture, fountains, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, and numerous restaurants and cafes.
Trevi Fountain: One of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, this stunning Baroque fountain is a must-see for visitors, who traditionally toss a coin in for good luck and a return to Rome.
Campo de’ Fiori: A lively and colorful market square, it hosts a daily food market and is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s an ideal spot for dining and people-watching.
Largo di Torre Argentina: Home to the remains of four ancient Roman temples and the spot where Julius Caesar was assassinated, this site combines history and a cat sanctuary for a unique experience.
Sant’Ignazio Church: A Baroque church known for its breathtaking frescoes, particularly the trompe-l’oeil dome, which showcases the incredible illusionary skill of the artist Andrea Pozzo.

Hotels Near Pantheon

Accommodation in Rome near the Pantheon area is an excellent opportunity to reach all the main attractions in Rome by walk.

With the help of the particular filter, you can choose the best hotel near the Pantheon by yourself. My list of the hotels I would stay in is following:

Hotel Ponte Sisto –perfect location.

It will take just 15 minutes to get to the Pantheon and other ancient attractions in Rome. During the summertime, breakfast is served in the courtyard with beautiful palm trees. Near the hotel, there is Trastevere, which is full of bars and restaurants. Many of my friends stayed in this hotel and were fully satisfied.
Hotel Pantheon is a small and cozy 4-star hotel located just 50 meters from the Pantheon. Tourists recommend.
HT6 Hotel Roma – just 1 km from the Pantheon, this hotel is located in the Jewish Ghetto, a clean and quiet area in the heart of Rome where you can relax after your long tours.

FAQ about Roman Pantheon

How many Pantheon buildings are there?

How big is the Pantheon?

How many columns does the Pantheon have?

How many times has the Pantheon been rebuilt?

Pantheon – how to pronounce it?

How has the Pantheon changed over time?

How many gods are in the Pantheon?

Which Roman gods did Christians adapt into their saints?

Pantheon in Paris vs. Rome

The Pantheon in Rome and the Pantheon in Paris are both iconic structures with their own distinct histories and architectural styles. While they share a name and a connection to the concept of a temple dedicated to all gods, the two buildings have very different purposes and designs.

Pantheon in Paris vs Rome

The Roman Pantheon, constructed by Emperor Hadrian in 126 CE, is an ancient temple that has been converted into a Christian church. It is an outstanding example of Roman engineering, boasting the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. The oculus, a 9-meter (30-foot) opening at the dome’s apex, serves as the building’s only source of natural light. In addition, the Pantheon in Rome is known for its perfect proportions, as the dome’s diameter is equal to the height from the floor to the oculus. As a result, a perfect sphere could fit within the interior of the building.

In contrast, the Parisian Pantheon was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, by King Louis XV in the 18th century. The construction began in 1758 and was completed in 1790. Designed by architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot, it was later repurposed as a mausoleum to honor French national heroes and distinguished citizens during the French Revolution. The Parisian Pantheon features a neo-classical façade with a Greek-cross plan, incorporating Gothic elements such as ribbed vaults and flying buttresses. Its architectural design reflects the Enlightenment’s interest in rationality and harmony.

While both Pantheons serve as the final resting places for notable individuals, the Roman Pantheon houses the remains of Italian kings, artists, and composers. In contrast, the Parisian Pantheon is home to famous French figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.

In summary, the Pantheon in Rome is a marvel of ancient Roman architecture and engineering, while the Pantheon in Paris is a testament to French Enlightenment ideals and national pride. Despite their shared name, these two buildings embody distinct historical periods and architectural styles, offering unique insights into the societies that created them.

Author: Artur Jakucewicz Rome Holiday Planning Expert

I have lived in Rome for over 10 years and am glad to share my experience and knowledge. I love ancient history and architecture — author of travel guides in Italy for independent travelers.