This beautiful 2000-year-old temple in the very heart of Rome remains an emphatic symbol of the might of the Empire, and it stands out in a city which is literally jam-packed with architectural marvels.The building we see today was constructed in 126 A.D. by the renowned emperor Hadrian, but the original structure was commissioned by the general Marcus Agrippa in the first century B.C., and it is his name which adorns the entablature, reading “Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, made this building when consul for the third time”. The now plain pediment would once have been decorated by a large sculpture depicting the battle of the Titans.The remarkable portico at the front of the building is made up of a pediment supported by sixteen large granite Corinthian columns, then a rectangular vestibule leads through into the rotunda, which is topped by the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world measuring 43.3 metres in diameter, the same distance from the chequerboard marble floor to the oculus above. The natural daylight entering from this opening in the roof gives the church a unique atmosphere inside, and as the sun travels across the sky, the various masterpieces decorating the walls are illuminated with a dazzling shaft of light. You can also see the tombs of the Renaissance master Raphael and Kings of Italy Umberto I and Victor Emmanuel II.The Pantheon (meaning “All Gods” from the Ancient Greek) has been in continuous use since it was built, and from the 7th century it has served as a Catholic Church dedicated to “St. Mary and the Martyrs”, but it is more commonly known as “Santa Maria della Rotonda”.Long queues of tourists waiting to see this iconic building usually stretch across Piazza della Rotonda, but your patience will be rewarded as it really is well worth the wait.It’s best to approach the Pantheon, which is open seven days a week, on foot or by taxi as the narrow streets surrounding this most central area of Rome are unable to accommodate buses.
Pantheon Tours and Activities
Visit Pantheon
History & culture
See all 1366 activitiesOpens in new tabVatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter’s Basilica Fully Guided Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 332 activitiesOpens in new tab3 in 1 Cooking Class near Navona: Fettuccine, Ravioli & Tiramisu
Attractions
See all 20 activitiesOpens in new tabSkip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets or Tours
Cruises & boat tours
See all 42 activitiesOpens in new tabAmalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip from Rome with Coastal Cruise
Private & custom tours
See all 498 activitiesOpens in new tabVespa Tour By Night
Popular places to visit
Piazza della Rotonda
The iconic Pantheon and a beautiful fountain draw visitors to this vibrant square set in the heart of Rome’s historic center.
Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza
You can learn about the history of Rome when you stop by Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and stunning cathedral in this vibrant area.
Palazzo Madama
After visiting Palazzo Madama, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Rome. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola
Learn about the local history of Rome with a stop at Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Tempio di Adriano
You can find out about the history of Rome with a trip to Tempio di Adriano. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Piazza di Pietra
Learn about the local history of Rome with a stop at Piazza di Pietra. Visit the stunning cathedral and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Top Pantheon Hotel & Accommodation Deals
- Holidays and getaways similar to Pantheon
- Are there hotels near Pantheon?
- Hotels near popular Rome Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Colosseum
- Hotels near Trevi Fountain
- Hotels near Spanish Steps
- Hotels near Piazza Navona
- Hotels near Piazza di Spagna
- Hotels near Roman Forum
- Hotels near Campo de' Fiori
- Hotels near Circus Maximus
- Hotels near Via Veneto
- Hotels near Via del Corso
- Hotels near Roma Est
- Hotels near Via Nazionale
- Hotels near Foro Italico
- Hotels near Marco Simone Golf Club