Built on circular foundations of the original temple of Agrippa.
Original temple destroyed in a fire in 80 AD.
Design and Construction
Likely designed under Emperor Domitian.
Construction began during the reign of Hadrian (starting from 114 AD).
Features an imposing entrance (pronaos) leading to a vast interior.
The Dome
Remarkable ancient engineering marvel.
Naturally lit by an oculus at its peak.
Constructed with different types of concrete, lighter towards the top to reduce pressure on the structure below.
Rests on a massive cylindrical ring supported by sturdy foundations.
Interior Details
Interior showcases harmony and diversity in materials:
Floor: circles of red and gray Egyptian granite set in squares of ancient yellow ornamental marble, surrounded by red granite on a white and purple Phrygian marble background.
Side walls have seven exedras (some rectangular, others curved) with benches and columns.
Coffers: recessed panels in the ceiling, arranged in five horizontal rows.
Serve both decorative and functional purposes (lighten the dome's weight).
Renovations and Restorations
Around 1740, architect Paolo Posi renewed upper niches with stuccos and pediments.
Some original elements, like marble capitals, have been lost.
Twentieth-century restorations aimed to restore elements of the ancient attic decorative scheme.
Exedras and aedicules were restored during the Renaissance, now housing Christian statues replacing ancient pagan representations.
Historical Significance
The Pantheon is a testament to Roman architectural ingenuity.
Functions as a historical palimpsest with layers of interventions reflecting different periods and styles.
Transitioned from a pagan temple to its current function.