Pantheon Rome

The Pantheon dome | World's largest unreinforced concrete wonder

Included with Pantheon Rome tickets

Timings

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

Glimpse Inside Rome Pantheon

What is the Roman Pantheon dome?

The Roman Pantheon Dome is a symbol of Rome's architectural innovation. Even modern engineering can't help but tip its hat to its colossal concrete cupola, a feat of grandeur and precision. It is the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, which means that it is mounted and supported by its own weight, without the need for additional structures. The oculus above, positioned 43 meters (142 feet) high, allows a cascade of sunlight to paint intricate patterns upon the floor below.

Quick facts about the Roman Pantheon Dome

Roman Pantheon Dome
  • Date of opening: 27 BC (original temple), rebuilt in 126 AD
  • Architect: Marcus Agrippa (original), Emperor Hadrian and Apollodorus of Damascus (reconstruction)
  • Architectural style: Roman Classical
  • Notable feature: World's largest unreinforced concrete dome
  • Dome's dimensions: Diameter of 43 meters (142 ft)
  • Unique symmetry: Height and diameter of interior circle are equal

Highlights of the Pantheon dome

Concrete wonder

Over millennia, the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome has been standing strong. The thickness of the concrete reduces towards the top, so that the dome's weight is evenly distributed and structural integrity isn't compromised.

Rome Pantheon architecture in detail

Oculus

Look up and be captivated by the oculus at the top of the dome. This opening lets sunlight cascade onto the marble floor, painting shifting patterns as the day unfolds. It also helps to maintain ventilation inside the Pantheon.

Read about the Rome Pantheon's oculus in depth

Coffers

The boxes that dominate the dome are called coffers. There are 140 coffers, and they decrease in size as they reach the apex. Originally, these coffers contained bronze. These coffers with their concentric frames and niches add depth to the dome.

Art, contrast and balance

Admire the fusion of art, light and architecture within these ancient walls. As Roman sculptures and paintings merge with the dome's architectural splendor, experience the convergence of creative brilliance.

Bridging past and present

Emperor Hadrian often held court at the Pantheon, where he addressed his subjects. His vision was to create a monument the Romans would be proud of and awed by, and the Pantheon achieved his aim. So, when you stand where emperors once stood, you'll find yourself transported through time, from antiquity to the present day.

Frequently asked questions about the Rome Pantheon dome

Emperor Hadrian likely envisioned the dome to connect mortals to the heavens. Through the shaft of light that pools in through the oculus, the dome acted as a celestial mode of communication. He wanted to give the Romans an architectural masterpiece they could be proud of, and hence the Pantheon itself was reconstructed during his reign.

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Pantheon oculus

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