The Pantheon is one of the world’s best-preserved ancient monuments. Built around 125 AD by Emperor Hadrian, this impressive temple has stood in Rome for almost two thousand years and continues to amaze visitors worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable structure and discover how it has survived for many centuries.
The Design of the Pantheon
The Pantheon is an immense circular building with a portico of large granite Corinthian columns under a pediment. The dome’s height is equal to its diameter, making it one of the perfect architectural designs ever constructed. At the center of the crown is an opening that allows light to enter, providing beautiful illumination inside. This opening also serves as an oculus – a symbol of divine providence watching over us from above.
The interior walls are decorated with classical Greek and Roman artwork, including sculpted figures and reliefs depicting battles and mythological scenes. The marble floor also features intricate geometric patterns, symbols, and inscriptions honoring past emperors or gods. All these features combine to create an awe-inspiring atmosphere inside the temple.
The Preservation of Pantheon
Despite being nearly two thousand years old, the Pantheon remains remarkably well-preserved thanks to some ingenious engineering techniques employed during its construction. For example, its iconic dome was built using concrete reinforced with brickwork – a revolutionary design that allowed Hadrian’s architects to build higher and more durable structures than before. This ensured that even after centuries of exposure to harsh weather conditions, the building remains today in all its glory!
Furthermore, it is worth noting that throughout its history, Pantheon has been renovated several times to keep it looking as pristine as possible. Pope Urban VIII restored it in 1625 after suffering damage from lightning strikes; architect Giuseppe Valadier gave it a significant facelift in 1811. Most recently, it underwent conservation work from 2013-2016 following damage caused by water infiltration over time.
How To Get There
The Pantheon is located in the heart of Rome, close to the Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain. It can easily be reached on foot from any point in the city center.
Several bus routes stop nearby, and the nearest metro station is Barberini on Line A. If you’re driving, there is limited parking available near the monument. Still, it’s best to leave your car in one of the many public garages or parking areas in central Rome and walk from there.
Final Thoughts:
Pantheon has had many admirers since its construction almost 2000 years ago – both among contemporary citizens and those who have come after them! Its combination of impeccable design and careful maintenance has resulted in one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks remaining intact for a long time – something genuinely remarkable given its age! So if you’re traveling through Rome on a holiday or business trip, then be sure to visit this historical monument – you won’t regret it!
Rome Tourist Attractions
If you want to get information about the best places to visit in Italy, you can check our Tourist Attractions in Rome article.
Official Website: https://www.pantheonroma.com/home-eng/
