Fontana del Pantheon

Pantheon — timeless wonder of Rome… Even in October, the line to enter the Pantheon can stretch across Piazza della Rotonda, especially around midday. To save time, it’s best to buy tickets online in advance, entrance is now ticketed, and demand remains high year-round. Here’s a fascinating detail: when it rains, the famous oculus — the open eye of the dome — lets the water fall directly onto the marble floor, where ancient drainage holes invisibly channel it away. A small architectural miracle that’s been working flawlessly for nearly 2.000 years.

Popular and lovely piece of artwork, a large obelisk surrounded by a fountain with a lot of street performers and horse carriage rides. A great place to take some time and try to process what you just saw in the Pantheon!!

Absolutely stunning! The Pantheon is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Rome. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and standing beneath the massive dome and iconic oculus is an unforgettable experience. The blend of history, beauty, and serenity inside is truly special. Free entry makes it even better, and its location in the heart of the city is perfect for exploring the surrounding piazza, cafés, and shops. A must-see when visiting Rome — timeless, majestic, and simply incredible.

The Fontana del Pantheon is a charming little fountain right in front of the Pantheon. Its simple design and flowing water add a peaceful touch to the lively square. Sitting nearby, watching people pass by and listening to the water, makes it a perfect spot to pause and soak in Rome’s atmosphere.

Another one in the grand lineup of Roman fountains. Baroque beauty with an obelisk in the center and a bunch of stone faces spitting water like they mean it. Since it’s right in front of the Pantheon, most people see it as just a “nice extra,” but it has its own story — built in the late 1500s, with an actual Egyptian obelisk on top. Just be careful while taking photos — there’s a good chance of stepping on a gelato cone… or someone's toes. 😄

A great spot to catch your breath and take in one of Rome’s most iconic views. The fountain adds a calm touch to the lively piazza, and with the Pantheon right behind it, it feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Fun fact: The fountain was commissioned in 1575, but the obelisk in the center is way older straight from ancient Egypt and the reign of Ramses II.

Go at night- fewer people and much cooler. There was a someone sleeping off to the right side though- so if that bothers you- maybe don't go at night.

Fontana del Pantheon. First set here in 1575 by Giacomo della Porta, the fountain was reworked in 1711 with a new basin and sculptural group by Filippo Barigioni. At its centre rises the Macuteo obelisk, cut in Egypt in the 13th century BCE and later brought to Rome, once standing before the church of San Macuto. Dolphins coil at its base, their baroque curves splashing against the Pantheon’s stern antiquity. By day the square heaves with crowds, but at night the fountain glows, its waters playing more quietly against the columns—a better time to take in the meeting of ancient and baroque.

The Pantheon is surprisingly not a Ticket (5€) you need to purchase and plan for in advanced. Keep an eye out for the three lines: left line for cash, middle line for prepaid online, and right line for credit card. Apparently the right line for credit cards is usually the shorter one. But you should decide for yourself when you get there which one is shorter. The Pantheon can be easily spotted with its' iconic columns in the front, but it is most famous for its' massive unreinforced concrete dome, which remains to be the largest of its' kind in the world. This is incredible innovation and advanced engineering skills from the ancient Romans. What intrigues me the most about the Pantheon is how it was once a polytheistic place a worship, meaning a place of worship for all Roman gods. Present day, it has been converted into a Christian church. I will be respectful of all beliefs and admire this place with the utmost respect. The Pantheon is a remarkable timeless building that is truly a must visit when visit Rome. Although it was busy, the amount of crowd here was tolerable compared to other nearby attractions.

I'm in the minority but i dont get what the hype is. The dome? I mean theres nothing to see inside. Its a church. With some tombs. I spent all day marveling at the colosseum. But I spent 5 minutes at the pantheon. Looks cool outside, no need to stand in line or buy tix for inside.

I have the fortunate to have been here twice in my life now First visit once arriving as our hotel was literally around the corner Lines were confusing lol I don't remember paying last time I was here in 2007 but we found the right line to get a ticket Then it seemed we could get into another non paying line but then no Hahaa After paying we got into what we thought was the line and again nope I'm like omg I just want to go in lol We did and of course still as beautiful as before Never been after it rained so it answers my question about the center open hole on the ceiling It's such an epic historic site and a must see!

All Roman architecture is stunning and this is another example of that very thing! It's amazing to think that people built this so very long ago without the aid of modern machinery. We went on a crowded and busy Saturday, but were still able to navigate the area and see this amazing structure. Didn't go inside, didn't want to wait in the long lines, but enjoyed what we saw outside.

What can I say ? It was absolutely beautiful and I had no idea it is now a church. Cost was 5 Euro per person. Said prayers and felt blessed to have been here.

The Pantheon, Rome's little pop-up shop for gods. Built in 113-125 AD, because apparently the Romans weren't content with just conquering the known world, they also needed a cosmic skylight. And they did this without calculators. Let's start with that oculus, the grand architectural feature that's really just a giant hole in the ceiling. Revolutionary, they say. Leaky, I say. Who needs a roof when you can let in natural light and all of April's showers? It's not a drainage problem, it's an immersive experience. Don't worry, these smug geniuses included drains to accommodate their architectural flex. Step inside and boom, you're hit with the smell of centuries. It's somewhere between incense and stone. Oh look, there's Raphael's tomb. Because when you're the master of the Renaissance and my favorite Ninja Turtle, clearly the best resting place is a rebranded pagan temple turned church turned bucket list item for every motivated tourist since 1901.

Totally worth the visit, but go with a tour group so you can hear the history of the building and tombs. The first king of Italy's tomb is to the right and directly across from him is his son and his wife. The ceiling is a gorgeous dome that is open in the center. When it rains, it enters as a beautiful mist. There's also drainage holes in the floor which are among the first of that kind of system. This is a must see while in Rome. Side note, the crowd can be absolutely insane at times. And there's also a few gelato places and coffee shops right across the way.

Engineering marvel for the time period that it was constructed. Walking distance from our hotel this Historical masterpiece was a pleasure to tour. We did a self guided tour with a set time. Once you walk through the heavy iron doors you take in the splendor of the interior. From the floor to ceiling it is a marvel of beauty to your eyes and mind. Although it was busy it was quiet, respect being shown by those viewing it. From the history, culture, artwork, frescos, stone work, there was so much to see and learn about this important well preserved part of Rome history.

Visited the Pantheon at night and it was honestly amazing just seeing it from the outside. The way it's lit up makes the ancient building look even more impressive. I didn't go inside or do a tour, but standing there and admiring the architecture was more than enough. It's one of those spots where you just have to take a moment to appreciate the history. Definitely recommend stopping by, especially in the evening when it's a bit quieter.

Very cool and total tourist spot. Crazy long lines. If you plan on going in you should book in advance and go early. From about 10 on the lines are super long.

Three lines: cash, online tickets and credit cards. From left to right. We waited about 45 minutes on a Sunday afternoon in February. A pagan site. A catholic site. A sanctuary. The oculus is mesmerizing.

A must see while visiting Rome. (One photo is of me and hubby after we renewed our 35th wedding vows at the Boghese Gardens on May 2nd ) The Pantheon was built on the site of an earlier temple, which had been commissioned by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - AD 14). After the original burnt down, the present building was ordered by the emperor Hadrian and probably dedicated c. AD 126. Its date of construction is uncertain, because Hadrian chose to re-inscribe the new temple with Agrippa's original date inscription from the older temple. The building is round in plan, except for the portico with large granite Corinthian columns (eight in the first rank and two groups of four behind) under a pediment. A rectangular vestibule links the porch to the rotunda, which is under a coffered concrete dome, with a central opening (oculus) to the sky. Almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon's dome is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome.The height to the oculus and the diameter of the interior circle are the same, 43 metres (142 ft). It is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings, in large part because it has been in continuous use throughout its history. Since the 7th century, it has been a church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs (Latin: Sancta Maria ad Martyres), known as "Santa Maria Rotonda".The square in front of the Pantheon is called Piazza della Rotonda. The Pantheon is a state property, managed by Italy's Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism through the Polo Museale del Lazio. For an example-In 2013, it was visited by over six million people. The Pantheon's large circular domed cella, with a conventional temple portico front, was unique in Roman architecture. Nevertheless, it became a standard exemplar when classical styles were revived, and has been copied many times by later architects.

A really cool old looking building in Rome. We bought tickets at the outside kiosk and one of the machines was broken so they allowed us to go into the human line for purchasing. there's no need to buy tickets in advance or a tour because the place is so small you'd walk around in about 30 minutes. The dome is the most interesting thing inside. Other than that there's religious artifacts and benches where people sit but not seemingly more than that. You go for the pictures and to check it off your list.

I saw that the Pantheon was listed as top things to do in Italy, according to google lol I hadn't previously had this on my Italy bucket list. But I'm glad that it was added to the list. The Pantheon is huge! And it's in such great condition. I was shocked to see all the details up close. It's gorgeous and so well preserved. It's crazy to think about how old this building is! Worth a trip if you visit Italy! 10/10

An amazing building of Ancient Rome. Still the largest unsupported domed building in the world. The building is crowded. Ignore the one-star reviews about crowd size ruining the experience. It is worth the effort to see this marvel of Ancient Rome

One of the greatly maintained landmarks in a city of world-class sites. The dome, oculus and church history provide for a half day's wonder if you really wanted to dig in. With the greatest architecture centered here, as I often say, once you visit Rome there's no need to see the other historic cities of the world. Such a high concentration of never-ending greatness results in many other ancient cities falling short. A sense one must return is thus reinforced. The greatest advice to share prior to embarking on sites like the Pantheon is: do your homework prior. Read your books, absorb the written history and grasp the greatness ahead of arrival - be it the first or fifteenth time. Foresight makes for a far more enjoyable experience.

The Pantheon has one of the most perfect interior spaces ever constructed, and it's been copied ever since. It's also the best preserved ancient Rome monument. The entrance cost is only €5, there's kiosk machines for self-serving credit card purchase, or you can pay cash to buy tickets near the entrance. It''s one of my favorites in Rome, totally worth it.

We just arrived in Rome, settled into our (budget) hotel room and with daylight burning we wanted to get something 'substantial' under our belt before that (first) day was over. We walked down the block and came upon the back of The Pantheon; the streets overflowing with people and eventually made our way to the front/entrance. Whoa! Now that's impressive. Even with hundreds of people in and around the building (including the very cool obelisk that people loved to flock to and never leave) - this looked cool as hell (and brought me back to visiting Greece over a decade ago). But... this is Italy. Easter Weekend. There are lines out the wahzoo and we figure it'll be easier the following day. The following day arrives. By the time we get here... it's even worse. Two massive lines and we had to hop into the one for people without tickets. Making matters worse... surly teens. We solider on. We eventually make it inside. Whoa. Now THIS is really impressive. (So much so that even those moody teens of mine couldn't stop marveling and commenting on every wall and sculpture and painting they stumbled upon.) It's an active church (a service was just about to start when we arrived). Two kings of Italy, as well as the painter Raphael are buried here. The domed rotunda is magnificent. Just a fascinating and intriguing building. (No wonder none other than Michelangelo was to have said that the Pantheon was the design of angels and not man.) Loved every second we were here.

What a beautiful architecture. There were tons of people that were going inside but I ended up just taking pictures on the outside. Tickets need to be ordered days/weeks in advance or you risk waiting a long line to buy tickets in person. Worth checking out in Rome even if it's just a walk by.

The line was very long to get in, it took about an hour. I do recommend seeing it once. Gorgeous inside.

Pantheon came as part of the Roma pass, so we wanted to check it out. You do need to have a reserved time slot to avoid the queue. Otherwise, expect long wait times during the summer season. We exchanged our voucher for the ticket, which takes a 10-minute walk. Make sure you are standing in the right line as it could be confusing at times. The Pantheon is an excellent building with great architecture style built. It's worth visiting this, and I also recommend getting an audio guide. It's definitely worth the visit. You might need 45 minutes to an hour for this gem.

The Pantheon was fairly close to the Trevi Fountain, so we decided to head in it's direction on our aimless tour of Rome. The history and architecture of this structure is amazing but to be honest, walking up to it, for me, was a bit underwhelming. Maybe it's because there was construction at the obelisk that faces it. Maybe it was the strange line situation at the front with all of the people. I don't know. I just wasn't struck by it the way other historical sights in this city struck me. However, I will say it's still a very cool thing to see and very much worth a visit. Just make sure to read the signs when you enter, as it can be a little confusing. I did notice that even if you didn't go in, there's a spot in the front that you can see inside and it's still pretty beautiful to see.

The Pantheon in Rome is one of the city's most famous, historic and iconic buildings, the stunning Roman structure dates back to 113-125 AD when the current building was founded, it's a former Roman Temple and Catholic Church. The original building was destroyed by a fire, and then again, before being rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian, but that curse has ended with the Pantheon becoming one of the best-preserved monuments in the world. The Piazza della Rotonda containing the building always tends to be bustling and touristy, in a way that the nearby building, Tempio di Adriano is not, it is very central in the city and it allows you to get to many tourist attractions in a short space of time, with Trevi Fountain nearby also. The Pantheon is in use as a Catholic church, and as such, visitors are asked to keep an appropriate level of deference. Masses are celebrated there on Sundays and holy days of obligation. Weddings are also held there from time to time. You will find homeless people in and around Piazza della Rotonda and even underneath the building, sitting on steps alongside tourists, which can feel a little uncomfortable at times, although it's nothing like the scams outside the Colosseum, some do exist. The interior is stunning with the pillars and round dome, and it is well worth a visit while in Rome. 4*

It was Beautiful inside and we went at our own pace- not terribly big so you don't need a ton of time. -We used Audio guide players like iPhone to hear about it. -Picturesque -Benches and seating available to listen and take it all in and relax.

If you had to choose only one historical/architectural site to visit in Rome, the Parthenon would be your best bet. The feat of ancient creativity and engineering remains in remarkable condition and will inspire awe in any viewer. Well worth the 5€ admission fee.

This ended up being my favorite historical site in Rome. Even though, it being high summer, the lines were long and it was indeed confusing on how to get a ticket.. It was worth the wait. This temple has worn many faces throughout history. Originally built for the Roman gods in 126 AD, its origins began 27 BC when it was commissioned during the reign of Agustus. To fit the changing religious and political scenery, it became a Catholic church in 609 AD. If that alone isn't worth you stopping in, then consider that one of the most famous painters of the Renaissance is buried here as well, and you can see the tome of Raphael. Tomes of two well-known Italian kings can also be found here. The marvel for many is the oldest unreinforced concrete dome where heavenly light bathes the interior of the building. It is so breathtaking, and the architectural feats are so incredible that you can not but be impressed. Be sure to bring something to cover your shoulders and no shorts allowed. They also close at certain times in the day as well, so check the schedule.

In mid-September we were able to get in without a reservation and without a wait. Yes, it was still crowded, like everything else, but not so packed we couldn't move and we were able to walk around and appreciate the amazing architecture and art in this ancient building which is still a church, so be sure to come dressed appropriately or you will be asked to correct the situation or depart. Old guidebooks reported it was free ti enter, but it's now $5-6€ per person...can't remember exact cost, but definitely reasonable.

Beautiful architecture that looks amazing for being thousands of years old. No charge to go inside. Depending when you go, could be a long wait but the lines move quick. Lots of cool Roman artifacts that don't take too long to see. I highly recommend taking the time to see it if you are in Rome. Lots of great pizza and restaurants very close.

Beautiful landmark. Was fairly busy when i visited, the line took about 10 minutes. Make sure to bring a jacket- they request you cover your shoulder before entering. The inside was just breathtaking. The walls and ceilings had such naunced art that we could spend hours looking at. However, time is limited inside and you move in a circle with other guests. Doesn't take long to make the circle inside, and even though it's shorts, is it well worth

Extremely impressive historical architecture. Lives up to expectations with that said it suffers the tourist tax. Not super expensive but you can see most of everything from the entrance without paying.

The Pantheon is another of Rome's magnificent structures to have stood the test of time. Remaining today beautifully over two thousand years old. The interior dome with its coffered rotunda is amazing! The oculus at the center is the main source of light and an architectural phenomena. The Architect, Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, a Roman Statesman born 63 BC., originally built the Pantheon as a temple, which later became a catholic church. "Agrippa finished the construction of the building called the Pantheon. It has this name, perhaps because it received among the images which decorated it the statues of many gods, including Mars and Venus; but my own opinion of the name is that, because of its vaulted roof, it resembles the heavens." -  Cassius Dio Indeed.

I think it goes without saying that The Pantheon should be on your list of must-do sights in Rome, but I will tell you anyway! It may be crowded at times, but even with that, it is not anxiety-inducing because most people inside are respectful and quiet as they peruse the space. When compared with the Colosseum (which is also fabulous, don't get me wrong), the Pantheon is almost the exact opposite (quiet, a little bit dimmer and cooler, and not nearly as crowded). Once inside, you can circle the rotunda and view all of the amazing historical artifacts and art/architecture all around. Getting to The Pantheon is an easy walk, once you know where you are headed. You will walk down a few streets that will make you think you can't possibly be going the correct way, and then BAM! There it is in the middle of a bunch of twisting turning side streets :-)

With so many other reviews that had the same great experience.... What else can I say..,. One of the many great sites to see in Rome. Easy to access by foot Located in a nice plaza, cool street performers Near restaurants and bars Free access at times

Everyone who comes to Rome must visit the Pantheon - and that's the problem. The massive crowds can be overwhelming and can make your visit not too pleasant. So be prepared for that. While the outside of the building is impressive (think: it was built about 1900 years ago and still commands majesty!), this is one place that the inside (ticket required and long wait lines) that you should plan ahead and try to see the inside. But, if you don't have time for that, the outside, especially the front with the grandiose pillars, is still a great scene. At the minimum you can admire the massive columns and take a closer look at the Latin engraved on the front, in 125 AD (!!!) that says "Marcus Agrippa, the son of Lucius, three times consul, built this."

Quintessential classical Roman history, the Pantheon is a must see for anyone visiting Rome. Completed in 128 AD, the rotunda has the world's largest unreinforced cement domed ceiling, even to this day, more than 2000 years later. The center of the ceiling has is an oculus (circular hole) that allows light in and the light reflects and literally lights up the entire space. It's an engineering marvel! According to a tour guide, a piece of architecture that is studied to this day. I'm absolutely fascinated and blown away that without modern technology, tools and equipment, that the Pantheon was designed, engineered and built. It truly is a wonder! There is so much detail everywhere! Check out the inlaid marble floors inside that remain spectacularly beautiful. Also in the 8 Corinthian columns outside, and the four in the second row, which gives this building a distinct visual and grand presence. The Pantheon is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient times because it has been utilized throughout history, so always maintained. First built as a Roman Temple to the Gods then it became a Catholic church (Basilica di Santa Maria) in 609 AD. Mass is still conducted here on Sundays and absolutely worth attending for a memorable experience. There is no fee to visit which is refreshing. Don't hesitate if there is a long line as it moves quickly; seeing the Pantheon as it has existed for over 2000 years is totally worth it! It's one of my favorite places of Roman history and I visit it every time I'm in Rome. And every visit, I find something new to marvel over. Located between the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza Navona, easy to see all three the same day and visit cafes, shops and other attractions along the way. Then go back and see all three again - Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona - at night because Rome at night is a museum in the sky!

Built around 125-6 AD, this place looks almost new. I love the ceiling, which in its time was a marvel of architecture. It is not my favorite site to see while in Rome, but it is a nice place to pop in on those hot or cold days to cool off or warm up.

I must admit that my friend and I did not know much about this place at the time that we visited. We only stopped in because it is listed as a famous attraction in Rome. Apparently, it was first used as a Roman temple and then later as Catholic church. The place looked a bit plain from the outside, but the interior is definitely eye catching. The dome on the ceiling is easily the best part of its design. The Pantheon is also free to visit, so it's definitely worth a look.

Wow! I have to admit, before arriving in Rome I'm not sure I knew what the Pantheon is. Sure, id heard the name over the years but... Until you see this inexplicably wondrous place in person, words can't describe. Photographs don't do it justice. It's at once a place of reverence, reflection, happiness, sadness. Amazing. It is what you need it to be if you slow down and focus. This can be difficult as the tourist, as with everywhere, are all over the place like ants. It takes a while after entering the main structure to let it sink in. At first, it feels like a large basement somewhere to be breezed through and exited. But no, slow down. You are going to want to explore this place. Dead Popes displayed like candy at a cafe check out, fantastic works of art centuries-old, unrivaled engineering feats, breathtaking architecture! It's not likely that you are going to ever visit a place as complicated yet simple, plain yet beautiful again. Until I visited Rome I was unaware of how long concrete had been in use. If I learned one thing it was Romans used a lot of concrete thousands of years ago which blew my mind. The dome of the Pantheon is the largest unsupported concrete dome ever built in the world! Constructed as a pagan worship site it has undergone many incarnations over the centuries and is now a Roman Catholic church. As if Rome needed any more churches! This is one place ill definitely return to if I visit Rome again and if you are in Rome definitely Go!!!

The Pantheon is one of the most recognisable Roman buildings in Rome's city center. We were able to wander in and out free of charge. Construction began in 27 BCE at the request of Marcus Agrippa. It amazingly stayed completely intact. The current temple and characteristic round dome were not built until the 2nd century, under emperor Hadrian, after Agrippa's building was damaged by a large fire in 80 CE and again in 110 when it was struck by lightning. Pantheon is a Greek term meaning 'devoted to all gods'. The Roman Pantheon was not used as a church until 608. The church was named 'Santa Maria ad Martyres'. Over time, altars & grave monuments were added, the graves of various Italian kings & painter Raphael. Tombs are marked in the 7 niches surrounding the central space. The oculus of the Pantheon or the opening in the dome has a diameter of 8.7 metres and lets in light in a special way (as well as rain at times). In addition to being a source of light, this 'oculus' was a deliberate addition to Hadrian's design to let the visitors of the temple be in direct contact with the heavens. The total dome has a diameter of 44.4 metres and is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The diameter is noteworthy as it is the same as the height from the floor to the oculus. At the edges, the dome is over seven metres thick, made of heavy types of rock. Near the oculus, the thickness of the dome is only 1.2 metres, made mostly of light pumice. Originally, the ceiling of the Pantheon was clad with bronze.

We visited the Pantheon mid-week around mid-afternoon. From my advance reading, I was under the impression that this was free to enter. However, at some point they have begun charging 5 Euros to get in. We had a city pass that purported to cover the Pantheon, so I asked a staff member about it. She said I would need to exchange the voucher for a ticket between two shops in the same plaza. I walked over there but all that existed between the shops was an alley with plywood over the entrance. It reminded me of a scene from one of the later Harry Potter movies, where there is a row house that is enchanted so that it is invisible to most people. I was still puzzling over this when my wife showed up, having read some fine print on the pass' site description. It referenced a company rep with an orange umbrella. We found her and got our tickets for the Pantheon (and a reservation for Castel Sant'Angelo, which we planned to visit afterwards). With that, we were able to enter the Pantheon at no additional charge. The interior is a bit dark, lit mostly by the doorway plus light from the oculus in the roof. Architecturally, it was stunning. We spent a while strolling the perimeter and seeing who was buried here (the artist Raphael, Queen Margherita for whom the pizza is named, the first King of reunified Italy, etc.). We also took a lot of photos. It was also crowded inside. I'm sure it would be even more so in the summertime. They had the center part roped off for some reason (it would likely be wet if there had been recent rain, given the oculus). We also had to dodge people trying odd photo techniques (putting cameras on the floor to take a vertical selfie with the roof, etc.). Also, this is a functioning church, so there could be times when worship services are being conducted. I was very glad we made time to see the Pantheon. There are so few structures that remain basically intact from ~ 2000 years ago. Marveling at the dome's architecture and the overall sense of history was great.

Before you go learn a lot of the history about it. Why is the hole in the middle one? The tools that are in there it'll help. You really soak it up. Please don't go in. Running around loud kids and with your hat on because it's a sacred place for them. Respect that

It is a must stop in Rome and it is a historic site you don't want to miss by any means. Just don't be fooled by the restaurants nearby, their food is bad. It is not a jaw dropping site, just something to check off.

You must come and visit the Pantheon if you're in Rome. It's free, but it might be busy so there might be a line - WAIT IN IT. Also, make sure you're appropriately dressed, no bare shoulders - it's a church and it's highly likely someone will say something. It will be crowded, try to ignore that part. It's a beautiful building and houses the remains of Renaissance artist Raphael. The Oculus at the top of the dome is NOT covered by anything - so if you can, go on a day when it's not raining. The engineering is a marvel to be sure. There is a beautiful fountain the plaza and plenty of cafes and bars around if you want to spend time there. It's a great experience.

"If God would have a singing voice, He would sound exactly like Andrea Bocelli." - Celine Dion Ciao! I absolutely agree with Celine! God would have a singing voice like Bocelli! Pantheon - Basilica di Santa Maria is located in the heart of Roma. It predates the birth of Jesus Christ. Grasp that for a Roman second. The Pantheon, as many Romans call her, is 2,000 years of history under a dome, one of the greatest ancient architectural landmarks, ever! The name "Pantheon" is from the Ancient Greek "Pantheion" which translates to "honor the many Gods". Just note that doors close around 7pm each night, if you plan to visit inside. Audio tours are available, which details all the history and of Pagan origins, to the immersion into the Roman Catholic Church, around 600 AD. The removal of many of the ancient statue deities by the church seem unspeakable to a historian, but in reality, the wealth and the influence of the Vatican was the reason for its survival during the darkest centuries of chaos. On my visit I had Bocelli to accompany me as I self-toured the ancient grounds after-hours. No audio tour with me, but the sound of God and all the ancients around me. If the columns could talk, it would tell me the story of Ancient Rome, into the Medieval ages, into the Golden Renaissance. It would tell the story of revolution and war. The story of survival, the great story of the Roman people. To touch this landmark, to really feel her, knowing how it predates the birth of Christ is quite humbling. One of the great architectural wonders of the world towering (nearly 200 ft. tall) in front of you. To imagine all those before you, those present, and the future generations well after we're gone.. humbling. In the end, a visit to Rome must include the Pantheon high up on the bucket list! I would suggest even two visits, daytime and at night! During open hours you can witness "The Eye of the Pantheon", or Oculus. On my late night visit, Bocelli's Mille Lune, Mille Onde with me, as I respectfully walked under a dark Roman sky. I see the full moon, distant, yet calling to me... Mille Lune, Mille Onde... A Thousand Moons, a Thousand Waves. Don't think of the past, all the mists that lie there. Hold me tight and talk to me again and you'll see we'll live again... Mille Lune, Mille Onde... Nei tuoi occhi c'è il cielo. Heaven is in your eyes.

Recently I went down a Wikipedia rabbit hole of Greek mythology. So when we arrived in Rome I already had my heart set on seeing the Pantheon however, post Covid fog is real and I forgot the MOST important part: the tickets!!! While the outside of the Pantheon is impressive and there are statues and you can see that they are open while under construction, we came to see the inside. I was so curious what the inside looks like but it's a brilliant idea to charge to see the inside as well as they limit how many people can enter per hour and per day. There's no sneaking in. The police are there as well as security by the line to get in. Please, if you end up in Rome- Roma order your tickets to get inside and have a look especially if you are interested or educated on Greek Mythology.

What a cool building with a TON of history behind it. It was the largest domed structure for centuries, and after upheaval it went from a place to worship the Roman Pantheon to a Catholic holy site. It houses the remains of the famous renaissance artist, Raphael as well as a few others. There's a huge hole in the dome to see the stars, although for us it was a hole for rain to fall through...

We went early (before 10 a.m.) and there was no queue to get in. We looked around for the duration of Rick Steves' free audio tour, which was pretty good.

The Pantheon is quite anticlimactic. Yes it is a very iconic landmark, but it is in the middle of a very crowded square and there was litter everywhere. There was even trash in the fountain out front (which I think says more about tourist then the building itself). You could go inside for a slight fee, but it had strange hours and was closed by the time we made it there. It is cool to say we have seen it, but it is not something I would put down as a must do in Rome. There are so many other more beautiful and historic places/churches/landmarks throughout the city.

One of my favorite places in Rome. Absolutely stunning piece of Roman architecture in almost perfect condition. A must see in every trip to Rome. I never tire of it.