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 Heutal is a high-valley in the community-region of Unken in the Salzburger Land at the border to Bavaria.

The skiing resort Hinterstoder offers 30 km slopes and perfectly prepared runs (with snow making systems). The cable car carries you from the village center Hinterstoder to the ski resort.

Skiing is usually possible throughout the year in the glacier ski area Hintertuxer Gletscher.

No matter whether you prefer the sun or sports: The Tegernsee is always a special experience during the winter season. Enjoy the fresh breeze and the nature of the mountains!

Only 60 kilometres away from Graz, the ski resort Hirschegg is located. Whoever is on skiing-vacation in the wintersport area Hirschegg, will find several lifts and well prepared slopes in easy and semi-professional difficulty.

When the slopes and valleys of the Chiemgauer Alps are covered with snow, it is a pleasure to practise winter sport. At the Hochfelln (1 674m) skiers have a breathtaking view and snowboarders go crazy in the halfpipes and Fun-Park.