Pantheon

The Pantheon is not only one of the best-preserved pieces of Ancient Roman architecture but it also has the largest unreinforced concrete cupola in the world. It is well-known for its oculus that lets the daylight (but also the rain) in through the top of the dome. Originally, the temple was dedicated to Roman gods, but in 608 AD it was turned into a Christian church. Most likely, the Pantheon owes its remarkable condition to this fact. Nowadays, the place is dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs and every Saturday, international masses are celebrated there.

The Pantheon is one of the key locations in both Dan Brown’s book and the film based on it, both titled Angels & Demons. It was also used as a burial site. Among people buried there, you can find even the important Renaissance painter Raphael.

The entrance to the Pantheon is free; only the guided tours are charged and need to be booked in advance. Usually, the place is crowded with tourists and you might spend some time queuing. There are not many public restrooms near the Pantheon. However, there are many restaurants and cafés nearby.

If you decide to use public transport in order to get there, the Pantheon is best reachable by metro (Line A – Station: Barberini) or by bus (Lines – 30, 40, 62, 64, 81, 87, 492 – Station: Largo di Torre Argentina).