Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: A Practical Guide for UK Travellers

The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most remarkable landmarks and one of the most compelling things to do in Rome. Situated in the heart of the historic centre, this ancient temple-turned-church has stood for nearly two millennia and remains one of the best-preserved monuments from the Roman Empire.

This guide covers the essentials for UK visitors, including the Pantheon’s history, architectural features, ticket advice, and nearby places to explore.

What Is the Pantheon?

The Pantheon was originally constructed as a Roman temple dedicated to all gods. In the seventh century, it was converted into a Christian church and is now known as the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyres. Today, it functions as both a religious site and a major tourist attraction.

Its longevity and continuous use have helped preserve it in excellent condition, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Rome.

A Brief History

The first version of the Pantheon was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa between 25 and 27 BC. However, the building you see today was completed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian around 125 AD. Although Hadrian oversaw the reconstruction, he retained Agrippa’s original inscription on the portico as a tribute to the earlier project.

In 609 AD, Pope Boniface IV consecrated the building as a Christian church. This change in use is one of the reasons the Pantheon has survived while many other ancient structures have fallen into ruin.

Key Architectural Features

The Portico

Visitors enter through a grand portico supported by 16 granite columns, each weighing approximately 60 tonnes. These columns were transported from Egypt and remain a striking feature of the exterior.

The Dome

The Pantheon is world-renowned for its massive concrete dome, which is still the largest unreinforced dome ever constructed. It has a diameter of 43.3 metres and is exactly equal in height from the floor to the oculus, forming a perfect sphere.

The Oculus

At the centre of the dome is a 9-metre-wide opening known as the oculus. It provides the only natural light source for the interior. Rain does enter, but the floor slopes gently and contains drainage holes to manage the water effectively.

The Interior

The interior is lined with original Roman marble flooring and features a series of niches and altars. Several notable figures are buried here, including the artist Raphael and Italian monarchs such as Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

Visitor Information for UK Travellers

• Location: Piazza della Rotonda, central Rome

• Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (last entry at 6:30 pm)

• Ticket prices:

  • €5 for general admission

  • €3 for EU citizens aged 18 to 25

  • Free entry for children, Rome residents, those with disabilities and their carers, and on the first Sunday of each month

• Where to buy: Tickets can be purchased online at museiitaliani.it or directly at the entrance

• Audio guides: Available in multiple languages and sometimes included with ticket packages

• Guided tours: Offered both in person and via mobile apps, often combined with visits to nearby attractions

How to Get There

• By Metro: The nearest stop is Barberini (Line A), about a 10-minute walk from the Pantheon

• By Bus: Routes 30, 40, 62, 64, 81, 87 and 492 all stop nearby at Largo di Torre Argentina

• On foot: The Pantheon is located within easy walking distance of other major landmarks including Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain

Tips for Visiting

• Best time to visit: Early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds

• Duration of visit: Most people spend around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether they use a guide

• Accessibility: There are a few steps at the entrance, but much of the interior is accessible

• Dress code: As it is an active church, visitors are asked to wear modest clothing

• Photography: Allowed throughout the building, but visitors are asked to remain respectful during services

Interesting Details About the Pantheon

• The oculus functions as a natural sundial. On 21 April, the anniversary of Rome’s founding, the midday sunbeam shines directly on the entrance

• On Pentecost, thousands of red rose petals are released through the oculus during Mass

• Pope Urban VIII removed bronze from the portico ceiling in the 17th century. The material was used to create the canopy inside St Peter’s Basilica and to make cannons for Castel Sant’Angelo

• Architects such as Filippo Brunelleschi studied the Pantheon’s dome when designing later structures, including the dome of Florence Cathedral

• The expression “What the barbarians didn’t do, the Barberini did” refers to the controversial removal of the Pantheon’s bronze

Other Attractions Near the Pantheon

If you’re planning your itinerary and listing the top things to do in Rome, the Pantheon is a great starting point. Several key sights are within walking distance:

• Trevi Fountain

• Piazza Navona

• Campo de’ Fiori

• Roman Forum

• Cafés and restaurants around Piazza della Rotonda

These areas provide plenty of opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy Rome’s atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Pantheon still a functioning church?
Yes. Mass is held regularly and the church is used for weddings and religious events.

Can I enter the Pantheon for free?
Yes, under certain conditions. Children, residents of Rome, disabled visitors, and all visitors on the first Sunday of the month can enter without charge.

How long should I allow for a visit?
Most visits last between 30 minutes and one hour.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s advisable to book ahead, especially during peak holiday seasons or if you wish to skip the queue.

Is the Pantheon accessible for wheelchair users?
There are a few steps at the entrance, but once inside, the space is relatively easy to navigate.