The Pantheon in Rome: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Italy’s capital, visiting the Pantheon is one of the most essential things to do in Rome. Located in Piazza della Rotonda, this ancient structure is one of the best-preserved buildings from the Roman Empire and continues to function as a place of worship.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Pantheon, including its history, architecture, visitor tips, and nearby attractions.

What Is the Pantheon?

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple that was later converted into a Catholic church. Officially known as the Basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyres, it was originally built to honor all Roman gods. Today, it is a functioning church and one of the most visited landmarks in Rome.

Historical Background

The original Pantheon was constructed by Marcus Agrippa in 25–27 BC. After a fire destroyed the building, Emperor Hadrian rebuilt it between 118 and 125 AD, preserving Agrippa’s name on the front of the structure. In 609 AD, Pope Boniface IV consecrated the building as a Christian church, which helped preserve it through the centuries.

Key Architectural Features

The Portico

At the entrance, visitors pass through a portico supported by 16 granite columns, each quarried in Egypt and transported to Rome. These columns weigh around 60 tonnes each and support a pediment inscribed with Agrippa’s dedication.

The Dome

The dome of the Pantheon remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. It spans 43.3 meters in diameter, equal to the height of the interior from floor to oculus. The engineers used a mix of heavy and light materials to manage the structure’s weight and maintain stability.

The Oculus

At the center of the dome is a circular opening measuring 9 meters in diameter. This oculus is the only source of natural light in the Pantheon and serves both practical and symbolic purposes. Rain can enter through the opening, but the floor has drainage holes and a slight slope to manage water flow.

The Interior

Inside, visitors find original Roman marble floors, geometric designs, and symmetrical niches. Several important figures are buried here, including the artist Raphael and Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

Visiting Information

• Location: Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, Italy

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

• Ticket prices:

  • €5 for standard admission

  • €3 for EU citizens aged 18–25

  • Free for residents of Rome, children under 18, people with disabilities and carers, and on the first Sunday of the month

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

• Skip-the-line: Available through tour providers

• Audio guides: Offered in multiple languages or via mobile apps

• Guided tours: Often include other nearby landmarks

How to Get There

• Metro: Closest stop is Barberini (Line A), about 700 meters from the Pantheon

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

• Walking: The Pantheon is within walking distance of other popular sites such as the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona

Tips for Your Visit

• When to go: Early morning or late afternoon tends to be less crowded

• Time required: Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes at the site

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

• Clothing: As it is an active church, modest attire is recommended

• Photography: Allowed, but please be respectful during services

Interesting Facts About the Pantheon

• The oculus acts as a natural light source and a symbolic connection between earth and sky

• On April 21st, sunlight passes directly through the oculus and lights the entrance, marking the anniversary of Rome’s founding

• Each year on Pentecost, thousands of rose petals are dropped through the oculus during Mass

• The phrase “What the barbarians didn’t do, the Barberini did” refers to Pope Urban VIII’s removal of bronze from the building

• The Pantheon influenced architects like Filippo Brunelleschi, who studied its dome before designing the dome of Florence Cathedral

Nearby Attractions

The Pantheon is centrally located, making it easy to combine your visit with other major sights. Top places within walking distance include:

• Trevi Fountain

• Piazza Navona

• Campo de’ Fiori

• Roman Forum

• Local cafés and gelato shops around Piazza della Rotonda

Exploring this area is one of the most enriching things to do in Rome, especially for those interested in Roman history and architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Pantheon still used as a church?
Yes, Mass is held regularly, and the building is used for religious ceremonies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak travel months.

How long should I spend at the Pantheon?
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on whether they use a guide or audio tour.

Is the Pantheon suitable for children?
Yes, the site is suitable for families, though young children may prefer shorter visits.

What makes the Pantheon unique among ancient Roman buildings?
Its combination of a classical temple front with a large domed rotunda and its excellent state of preservation make it unique.