The Pantheon is a Roman temple constructed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian between 118 and 125 CE on the site of an earlier structure commissioned by Marcus Agrippa. Dedicated to all gods, it combined a traditional columned portico with a circular domed rotunda. In 609 CE the building was converted into a Christian church, contributing to its continuous preservation. Its unreinforced concrete dome, spanning 43.3 meters in diameter, remains one of the most significant achievements of Roman engineering.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Unreinforced concrete, Brick, Granite columns, Marble revetment
- Civilization
- Roman Empire
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible at ground level
- Date(s)
- 118-125 CE
- Condition
- Well-preserved; active Catholic church since 609 CE
- Original Function
- Temple dedicated to all gods
- Key Figures
- Marcus Agrippa, Emperor Hadrian, Pope Boniface IV
Agrippan Predecessor
27-25 BCEMarcus Agrippa constructed the original Pantheon during the reign of Augustus. That structure was damaged by fire and later rebuilt before being destroyed again in the early 2nd century CE.
Hadrianic Reconstruction
118-125 CEEmperor Hadrian commissioned the present structure, retaining Agrippa’s inscription on the portico. The design introduced a massive concrete dome with a central oculus, integrating traditional temple form with innovative engineering.
Conversion to Church
609 CEThe building was consecrated as the Church of Santa Maria ad Martyres under Pope Boniface IV. Its continuous religious use helped ensure preservation through the medieval period.
Renaissance and Early Modern Period
15th-18th centuriesThe Pantheon became a site of artistic and civic importance, serving as the burial place of figures such as Raphael and later Italian monarchs. Modifications included the addition and later removal of bell towers.
Modern Conservation
19th century - presentThe building has undergone restoration campaigns addressing structural stability, water infiltration, and surface preservation. It remains one of Rome’s most intact ancient monuments.