12 interesting Rome Pantheon facts

1. Third time's the charm

The Pantheon as it stands is a result of a third reconstruction: the first time, Agrippa's Pantheon burned down in 80 AD. When Domitian rebuilt it, it was gutted by a fire again in 110 AD. Emperor Hadrian's Pantheon is what we see today, after its third resurrection.

2. Oldest serving structure in Rome

While there were many temples built throughout the Roman empire, none of them have been continually in service for the last 2,000 years.

More about the Roman Pantheon

3. The Pantheon once had bell towers

To commemorate its existence as a church, the Pantheon once had bell towers. It was later taken down since it gave the Pantheon a funny appearance, leading to the towers being nicknamed 'ass's ears'.

4. Initially a temple

The Pantheon was originally built as a temple dedicated to all Roman gods. It served as a place of worship and reverence for the ancient Romans.

Evolution and history of the Rome Pantheon

5. Contains the world's largest reinforced concrete dome

The dome of the Pantheon is its most remarkable feature. It is the largest unsupported concrete dome in the world, showcasing ancient Roman architectural ingenuity.

Read about the Pantheon dome in detail

6. Dome's diameter is proportional to the height

The Pantheon's architecture follows the principles of symmetry and harmony. The diameter of the dome is equal to the height at which it stands, creating an aesthetically pleasing and balanced structure.

7. Oculus is the only source of natural light

At the top-center of the dome is the oculus, a circular opening measuring close to 9 meters (27 feet) in diameter. It is the only source of natural light and ventilation in the Pantheon.

8. Rain water enters through the Pantheon oculus

Despite the Pantheon's open oculus, the interior remains relatively dry even during heavy rainfall. The sloped marble floor and the drainage system beneath it efficiently prevent flooding inside the building.

9. Uniquely intact bronze doors

The massive bronze doors at the entrance of the Pantheon are original and date back to antiquity. These doors, weighing around 20 tons each, are considered to be the largest ancient bronze doors in existence.

10. Central Corinthian column is known as the 'Pillar of Woes'

At the Pantheon entrance, there are seven large granite Corinthian columns forming the portico. According to local belief, touching the central column, known as the "Pillar of Woes" or "Column of Matidia," can bring good luck and heal physical ailments.

11. Final resting place of notable figures

The Pantheon serves as the final resting place for several notable figures. Among them is the renowned artist Raphael, who is buried in a tomb located inside the building.

12. The Rome Pantheon features in pop culture

The Pantheon features in famous movies like the Roman Holiday (in the scene where Princess Ann and Brad meet a photographer) *and *Angels and Demons (where the lead enters the Pantheon mistakenly in search of a clue).