Pantheon

Location

Rome
Italy
41° 53' 54.9996" N, 12° 28' 36.7428" E
IT
General info: 

Pantheon is one of the best-preserved of all Roman buildings. It was completed around 14AD and has been in continuous use ever since which is probably why it is still in a very good shape. Built in the times of Octavian Augustus, the temple was dedicated to all Gods of Roman religion.

The fascination of the Pantheon lies in its massive dimensions and extraordinary dome. Until 15th century it was the largest dome in the world. Now, almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon's dome is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome.

The symmetry of the structure is precisely calibrated – its diameter is exactly equal to the Pantheon's interior height of 43.3m. Light enters through the oculus, an 8.7m opening in the dome that also served as a symbolic connection between the temple and the gods. The entering rainwater drains away through 22 almost-invisible holes in the sloping marble floor.

Since the 7th century, Pantheon has been used as a Roman Catholic church.

Getting there: 

In ancient times, Patheon was the epicenter of life in Rome. The city grew grew around it and that is why this place is now located in the very heart of Rome, on the Piazza della Rotonda. Easiest to go there by foot.

Costs: 

Patheon is nowadays used as a Christian church. The admission is free of charge.

Interesting places nearby

The ski area Obergurgl – Hochgurgl is equipped with modern snow-making equipment which guarantees reliable snow conditions throughout the season. Obergurgl lies at the end of the Gurgler Tal on 1930 m altitude.

The ski area Oberjoch-Bad Hindelang is known for it’s snow reliability. The pistes are located on the Iseler on an altitude of 1200 m. The cross-country ski runs are equally well groomed to make your winter vacation unforgettable.

Berchtesgaden is a key Bavarian resort, active year-round, with six ski centres nearby. It has formerly put in bids to stage the Winter Olympics. A very pretty village with excellent accommodation and dining options.

A ski holiday in Obersaxen – Val Lumnezia offers an impressive mountain view. Obersaxen with its 29 churches and nearly as many chapels lies on a plateau at an altitude of 1200 metres.

Alpine skiers and snowboarders have the choice among 28 lifts, from baby-lift to small-cabin mountain railway. On 40 kilometres of ski-runs, all kinds of difficulty turn winter sports into an experience for everyone.

Alpine skiers and snowboarders have the choice among 28 lifts, from baby-lift to small-cabin mountain railway. On 40 kilometres of ski-runs, all kinds of difficulty turn winter sports into an experience for everyone.