The Pantheon Rome, Italy Review

Built originally in 27 A.D., and then rebuilt in 120 A.D. after several fires by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the temple was built to honor all the gods that the Romans worshiped. This incredible structure was said to have influenced the erection of the Florence cathedral dome which launched the renaissance era of architecture, and even the Capitol Dome in Washington DC. 

Looking like many other marble columned buildings of it's time from the outside, the inside is said to be a perfect radius design, and a 142 foot ball would fit perfectly inside the structure.  A task to be reckoned with today, but an astounding achievement for the second century.  The walls are said to be 23 feet thick at the base, and five feet thick at the apex of the radius.  The whole at the top of the dome to let the light in, (no electricity in those days), is 30 feet across. 

The marble floor which was slanted towards the edges to drain the rainwater coming in through the whole in the roof, is said to be mostly original, with minimal replacement due to age.  The marble patterns and workmanship visualized at the Pantheon, are for the most part 1800 years old. 

Raphael is entombed there, along with the first King of Italy, Victor Emanuel II. The Pantheon was made into a church sometime in the dark ages when the whole multiple gods thing kind of went away, and this transformation saved the structure from demolition as it became a protectorate of the Vatican.

The year 2009 will mark the structures 1400 year anniversary as a church.  A great sightseeing attraction with free admission, but always has a healthy crowd.  Gelato, coffee, sidewalk cafes, and lotsa dining options surround the Pantheon. 

Photographers take note:  Bring a fast lens, because light is minimal, and the crowds are significant.  Flash is allowed inside, but it's so big, it would be pointless. 

Hours of Operation:  Mon. thru Sat.   8:30 am till 17:30 pm

                                   Sunday    9:00 am till 6:00 pm  

                                   Closed at times for mass on Sat. and Sun.