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Pantheon

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · ROME

Pantheon

A nearly 2,000-year-old Roman temple with the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
45 minutes
Entry
Paid (small fee)
Best time
Morning
Area
Centro Storico

A 2,000-year-old temple with the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome

  • On foot: In Piazza della Rotonda, in the heart of the historic centre.
  • Tickets: A small entry fee applies; buy online or on site.
  • Services: It is still a church; visits pause during Mass.

The story of the Pantheon

The Pantheon was rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian around 125 AD, though its façade still carries the name of Agrippa, who built an earlier temple here. Its dome, 43 metres across, is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

Light enters through the oculus, a round opening at the top, and moves across the interior during the day. Since the 7th century it has been a church, which helped preserve it. The painter Raphael is buried here.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Midday, when the beam of light through the oculus is strongest.

Rain

Watch the rain fall through the oculus and drain away.

Tips before you go

  • Look up at the oculus, the open circle at the top of the dome.
  • Stand in the centre and look up at the oculus.
  • Have a coffee in Piazza della Rotonda afterwards.

Best hotels near the Pantheon

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotel Hassler Roma

Legendary hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps.

See prices

Hotel de Russie

Elegant hotel with a secret garden near Piazza del Popolo.

See prices

Palazzo Manfredi

Boutique hotel facing the Colosseum.

See prices
All hotels near the Pantheon

What's around the Pantheon

  • Piazza Navona5 minutes' walk.
  • Trevi Fountain10 minutes' walk.
  • Santa Maria sopra MinervaChurch with an elephant obelisk.
  • Campo de' FioriMarket square.

Questions travellers ask

Is there an entry fee for the Pantheon?

Yes, a small fee.

Why is there a hole in the roof?

The oculus lets in light and is part of the original design.

How old is it?

About 1,900 years.

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St Peter's Basilica

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Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain

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Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

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Travel Plan · Pantheon Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure