意大利罗马的万神殿

The Pantheon in Rome (full name: Temple of All Gods) is a remarkable monument of ancient Roman architecture, exceptionally well preserved to this day. This distinguishes it from many other structures of ancient Rome, such as the Colosseum, which have suffered significant damage over the centuries.

The Pantheon is located in the very center of Rome, on the Piazza della Rotonda. It is approximately a 5-6 minute walk from Corso, one of the city’s main pedestrian streets. However, navigating this area can be challenging due to the numerous narrow and winding streets. The square in front of the Pantheon is relatively small and often crowded with tourists photographing the massive columns of the temple’s grand portico.

The current Pantheon was constructed around 126 CE during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. For its time, it was an architectural marvel: its main circular hall, the rotunda, has no windows and is covered by a massive spherical dome with a diameter of 43 meters. At the center of the dome is an oculus, a circular opening through which a direct beam of sunlight illuminates the interior at noon, symbolizing the unity of the Roman gods. The temple’s main entrance is marked by a high portico with imposing Corinthian columns.

Originally, the Pantheon was dedicated to all the gods of the Roman pantheon. In 609 CE, with the advent of Christianity in Rome, it was consecrated as a Christian church under the name Santa Maria ad Martyres (Saint Mary and the Martyrs). This conversion protected the building from destruction, contributing to its remarkable state of preservation. Some ancient Roman paintings and decorations are still visible inside the structure. On the façade, an inscription commemorates its original creator: “M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT” (“Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, three times consul, made this”).

Today, visitors can explore both the church and the tombs of notable figures, including the Renaissance artist Raphael and several Italian kings. As of 2024, the entrance fee is approximately 5 euros.

Visiting the Pantheon
The nearest metro station is Barberini. The Pantheon is located on Piazza della Rotonda. It is open to visitors from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm on weekdays, and from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays.