Rome Pantheon

In the heart of ancient Rome stands one of humanity's most impressive structures - the Pantheon. A 2,000-year-old building that continues to amaze with its design and stunning historical technological achievement.

The Pantheon was built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian on the foundations of an earlier temple. The name "Pantheon" means "to all the gods" in Greek, as the temple was built in honor of all Roman gods.

The Pantheon's Dome, with an internal diameter of 43.3 meters and an external diameter of 65 meters, was the largest dome in the world for over 1,400 years! What's even more amazing is that it's made of unreinforced concrete - an engineering feat that seems almost impossible even today.

The Oculus - Eye of the Sky. At the center of the dome is a circular opening 8.2 meters in diameter, called the "oculus" (eye in Latin). This is the building's only source of light, creating spectacular light displays throughout the day. Rain enters through the opening, but the building was designed so that water drains easily through a slightly sloped floor.

The Pantheon profoundly influenced Renaissance architecture. Michelangelo called it "angelic design, not human." Great artists like Raphael are buried within it, and it continues to serve as an active church to this day.

Pantheon entrance is paid (5 euros at the time of our visit). Keep in mind there's a queue at the entrance.