Panteon in Rome (Italy) - the best preserved building of ancient Rome

The Pantheon in Rome is one of the most important and best-preserved monuments from ancient Rome. Built in honor of the gods, it is not only a symbol of the power and technology of ancient Rome, but also a testimony to the skills of the architects of that time. Built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian around 118 CE, the Pantheon fascinates with its architecture and construction technology to this day. The interior of the Pantheon, its huge dome and amazing architectural details make every visitor feel like they are in the center of the ancient world.

The architecture of the Pantheon: the mastery of ancient Roman technology

The Pantheon built by Hadrian is a true architectural marvel. It consists of two main parts: a portico with 14-meter Corinthian columns and a rotunda with a dome. The Pantheon dome, which was the largest dome in the world for about 1,300 years, has a diameter of 43.3 meters. To bear the weight of such a huge structure, the thickness of the dome at the base is 7 meters, and narrows to only half a meter at the rim of the oculus. The oculus, i.e. the "eye" of the top of the dome, has a diameter of 8.2 meters and plays not only an aesthetic but also a practical role, letting daylight into the interior of the building.

The oculus, also known as the "all-seeing eye of heaven", was a key architectural element of the Pantheon. Smoke from sacrificial ceremonies came out through this opening, and the sun's rays entering through the oculus illuminated the interior of the temple, creating a mystical atmosphere. Imagine five students holding hands - this is how much space the oculus takes up, showing its enormity.

The interior of the Pantheon: temple of the gods and the kingdom of art

The interior of the Pantheon is as impressive as its exterior architecture. The interior walls of the Pantheon are lined with granite and yellow marble, which adds majesty and elegance. Seven evenly spaced recesses in the walls symbolize the seven main deities of the Roman pantheon: Jupiter, Mars, Neptune, Venus, Mercury, Pluto and Saturn. These niches once housed statues of gods, creating a space full of spiritual power and ancient glory.

The ceremonial altar, located inside, was the site of animal sacrifices that were offered to the gods. Smoke from these offerings rose through the oculus, symbolizing sacrifice and connection with the heavens. The pantheon was not only a place of worship, but also a community center where important ceremonies and rituals took place.

It is also worth mentioning that the Pantheon houses the tomb of Raphael Santi, one of the greatest Renaissance artists. This is one of the few places where you can feel a direct bond between Renaissance art and ancient Rome.

Transformation of the Pantheon: from temple to church

Around 600 AD, the Pantheon was transformed into a Catholic church dedicated to Santa Maria Rotonda. Christians, claiming that the building was inhabited by demons, decided to rename it, which probably saved it from destruction. Thanks to this, the Pantheon has survived for centuries and we can admire it to this day.

The structure of the Pantheon's dome was studied by Michelangelo himself before he undertook work on St. Peter's Basilica. Peter in the Vatican. The basilica's dome is only half a meter narrower than the Pantheon's, attesting to the inspiration it drew from this ancient masterpiece.

Legacy of the Pantheon: an inspiration for generations

For centuries, the Pantheon was the largest dome in the world, until Brunelleschi's dome was built in Florence in 1420-1436. Despite this, the Pantheon still remains one of the most important symbols of Roman engineering and architecture.

The Pantheon in Rome is not just a monument. It is a place that has survived centuries, a symbol of ancient power and spiritual heritage. It is also living proof of how ancient technologies and innovations can stand the test of time, inspiring subsequent generations of architects and artists.

The Pantheon in Rome is a unique place that combines history, architecture and spirituality. Its monumental dome, majestic interior and rich history make it one of the most important places on the tourist map of Rome. The Pantheon not only represents the achievements of ancient Rome, but also continues its legacy as an inspiration for modern creators. Regardless of whether you are a lover of history, architecture or art, the Pantheon will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience.