The Pantheon is an ancient temple located in Rome, Italy. It was originally built as a temple to all the gods of Ancient Rome, and later converted into a Christian church in the 7th century. The Pantheon is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, and has been visited by millions of people from all over the world.
History
The Pantheon was originally constructed in 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa, a Roman general and statesman. The building was destroyed in a fire in 80 AD, and was rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD. The current building is largely the same as the one built by Hadrian, and has remained unchanged for over two thousand years. It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world, and has been a major tourist attraction since the Renaissance.
Architecture
The Pantheon is a circular building with a portico of three rows of large granite Corinthian columns. Inside the Pantheon, the dome is 43.2 meters in diameter and 43.2 meters in height, making it the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The oculus, or the opening at the top of the dome, is the only source of natural light in the building, and is thought to symbolize the eye of God.
Interior
The interior of the Pantheon is decorated with sculptures and paintings, and contains tombs of famous Italians, such as the artist Raphael and the first King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. The Pantheon is also home to many other important works of art, such as the tombs of two Italian kings, and the tomb of the painter Annibale Carracci.
Legacy
The Pantheon has been a major influence on architecture throughout the centuries. Many churches, such as the Pantheon in Paris, have been built based on the design of the original Pantheon in Rome. The Pantheon is also an important symbol of the city of Rome, and has been featured in many films and television shows.
Visiting the Pantheon
The Pantheon is open to the public and can be visited year-round. It is a popular tourist destination and offers many activities, such as guided tours, art exhibitions, and concerts. Visitors should be aware that there is an admission fee to enter the Pantheon.
Conclusion
The Pantheon is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in Rome, and has been a major tourist attraction since the Renaissance. It is an impressive and beautiful building, and is home to many important works of art. Visiting the Pantheon is an experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting Rome.
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