Step inside the Pantheon and look up. This temple to all the gods, rebuilt under the emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, is the best-preserved building of ancient Rome. The inscription on the portico still names Agrippa, who built the first temple on this site.
The dome and the oculus
The great dome is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. At its centre, the oculus – an opening about 9 metres wide – is the only source of light. When it rains, the water falls straight in and drains through small holes in the marble floor.
From temple to church
In the 7th century the Pantheon was consecrated as a church, Santa Maria ad Martyres, which saved it from being quarried for its stone. Inside are the tombs of the painter Raphael and of the first kings of Italy.
Tips
- An entry ticket has been required since 2023: buy it online or at the entrance.
- Visit early for a quieter moment under the dome.
- The Pantheon is a church: dress respectfully and keep your voice down.
- Step out onto Piazza della Rotonda for a coffee with a view of the portico.
