The History of Rome: The Pantheon

In keeping with a previous post about another Rome monument, this entry will be about the Pantheon. Built in the early 2nd century, designed by Hadrian and a temple dedicated to all the gods, the Pantheon is truly one of the great buildings of the world.

Rome, Italy's Pantheon under a full moon

Rome, Italy’s Pantheon under a full moon

It is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world; 43 m across and from the top of the drum to the ceiling center is also 43 m – a perfect hemisphere.

It was preserved through Rome’s darkest hours; even the Popes knew this was a special building. It was dedicated as a Catholic church for all martyrs in the early 7th century.

The bronze doors you walk through are the originals; nearly 2 000 years old.

Rome Italy's Pantheon interior

Rome Italy’s Pantheon interior

The columns in the portico are granite. The dome’s roof was obronze plates but a Barberini Pope had them removed and melted down to make the bronze baldacchino in New St Peter’s basilica in the Vatican.

Rome, Italy's Pantheon with Motorcycle

Rome, Italy’s Pantheon with Motorcycle

Easily my favorite place in Rome, the Pantheon remains as beautiful and artful as it was the day it was completed.

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