Pantheon

Marcus Agrippa built an earlier temple here in 27 BC, but fire destroyed it. Emperor Hadrian commissioned the present structure between about AD 118 and 125 while preserving Agrippa's name in the porch inscription. A traditional columned front opens unexpectedly into a vast circular interior. Its height and internal diameter are both just over 43 meters, creating the geometry of a sphere.

The coffered concrete dome lightens as it rises toward an 8.92-meter oculus, the building's only natural light source. Rain enters; 22 small floor drains carry it away. In AD 609 the Byzantine emperor Phocas gave the building to Pope Boniface IV, who consecrated it as Santa Maria ad Martyres. Continuous religious use helped spare it from the destruction suffered by many ancient monuments, although bronze and stone were still removed at different periods.

Raphael is buried here, as are the kings Victor Emmanuel II and Umberto I. The Pantheon remains an active basilica as well as a state-managed monument. Since July 1, 2026, full tourist admission costs €7. Once inside, resist staring only upward: stand at the center, then turn toward the doorway. The rectangular porch, circular drum, and moving disk of sunlight suddenly resolve into one controlled composition.

Did you know

• The oculus is the answer to one of the most useful details to remember on site.
• The 8.92 meters-wide oculus, the interior's only natural light source.
• Five rings of 28 coffers reducing the dome's weight.

Architecture and details

Begin with the building's plan and light before concentrating on individual artworks. The contrast between reused columns, later chapels and the main liturgical axis shows how Roman churches accumulated rather than replaced history. At Pantheon, compare these broad choices with the specific materials, openings and proportions described on site.

What to look for

• The 8.92 meters-wide oculus, the interior's only natural light source.
• Five rings of 28 coffers reducing the dome's weight.
• Slightly convex marble floor with 22 drainage holes.
• Raphael's tomb beneath the Madonna del Sasso.

Today

Open daily 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; last entry 6:30 p.m. and ticket office closes at 6:00 p.m. Hours can change for Mass and ceremonies. Shoulders and knees should be covered; silence is expected during worship. Photography without flash is normally allowed. The main floor is step-free, though crowds and stone thresholds can slow access. Hours and €7 price checked 2026-10-07. The rectangular porch, circular drum, and moving disk of sunlight suddenly resolve into one controlled composition.