Pantheon
A temple rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 125 CE. Its unreinforced concrete dome, 43 meters across, is still the largest of its kind in the world. Light streaming through the 9-meter oculus is the most striking architectural moment in Rome.
The Pantheon was first built by Agrippa in 27 BCE. The surviving structure was rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian between 118 and 128 CE to honor the gods of Rome. It was converted into a Christian church in 609 CE, which is why it has survived in such good condition, and it is the best-preserved ancient Roman building. The dome and the building are both 43.3 meters in diameter and height. It is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The circular opening at the top of the dome, called the oculus and 9 meters across, is the only light source. Sunlight moves across the interior over the course of the day. When it rains, water falls through the oculus and drains away through holes in the floor. Raphael, and Italy's first two kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I, are buried inside. The round Piazza della Rotonda in front has an obelisk fountain and cafés. Since July 2023, visitors have paid a 5-euro entrance fee. Those aged 25 and under pay 2 euros, those under 18 enter free, and entry is free during Mass. You can book online or buy tickets on site. In peak season the queue can run 20 to 40 minutes. Mass is held on Saturdays and in the evenings before holidays. A visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and photography is allowed inside. The Pantheon is in the pedestrian historic center, 5 minutes from Piazza Navona and 10 minutes from the Trevi Fountain. There is no metro station nearby, but you can take a bus to Argentina stop and walk 5 minutes. Nearby recommendations include the old cafés Tazza d'Oro and Sant'Eustachio, which serve some of the best espresso in Rome. Also nearby, the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva has Michelangelo's Risen Christ, and Bernini's little elephant obelisk stands outside. Keep to the dress code and stay quiet inside. The light at the moment the doors open each day is the most beautiful, so arrive at 8:30 when it opens.
Opening hours
09:00–19:00 (last entry 18:30)
Nearby sights
- Piazza Navona
- Church of the Gesù
- Spanish Steps
- Campo de' Fiori
- Theatre of Marcellus
- Altare della Patria (Vittoriano)
- Mausoleum of Augustus
- Tiber Island