The Pantheon Throughout Human History

Italy is a popular destination when it comes to tourism. One of the most common cities to visit when in Italy is Rome. Rome is notorious for its architecture and background. Sites of Italy include the Coliseum, the Trevi fountain, and the ancient Pantheon. An ancient temple dedicated to the pagan gods of Roman. To view this awe inspiring structure a trip to Rome is necessary. Be sure to get your passport in order or obtain a new passport in order to travel to Rome without any problems.

Passports

Passports allow you to travel internationally. They act as a travel permit. They are fairly easy to obtain now as most services can be conducted online. Before applying for your new passport, double check all requirements and make sure you all your necessary documentation. This will allow for a smooth application process.

History

The Pantheon was constructed around 27 B.C.E., construction continued until 25 B.C.E. It was commissioned to honor the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra by Actium. The original building burned around 80 C.E., it was then rebuilt in 125 C.E. by the emperor Hadrian. It was built as a fully functional temple and remained that way for over two centuries.

Structure

The configuration of the Pantheon was very unique for it’s time. It was constructed as a round building with a window in the center of the ceiling. This center, also known as an oculus was the only place where light entered. This was also the only point in which smoke from animal sacrifices to the deities travelled through.

Christianity

Once Christianity replaced paganism in Rome the Pantheon was abandoned. It was illegal to perform public pagan worship at the time, so it had no use. Later it was consecrated as a Christian church; it was the first pagan temple in Rome to be Christianized. This occurred in 609 C.E. by Pope Boniface IV. It was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and saints and was named the church of Santa Maria Ad Martyres. The all encompassing of the martyrs continued the “pan” use of the structure.

Michelangelo

The Pantheon went through many changes from function to the actual building itself. It was looted many times and stripped of its goods, including Bronze. In the early 16th century Michelangelo studied the Pantheon for inspiration. The Pantheon’s inspiration lead to the dome of St. Peter at the Vatican which is only two feet smaller than that of the Pantheon.

Inspiration

Now the Pantheon is a historic site to see, it was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1980. It has been the inspiration for many buildings today. These buildings include the British Museum Reading Room, The Tomas Jefferson Rotunda at the University of Virginia, The Low Library at Columbia University and the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia.

Rome is a destination spot due to its vast history and culture. It’s a city that features many historic sites including the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and of course the Pantheon. It is important that these sites be acknowledged and protected. Few people know that the Pantheon is actually a consecrated Catholic Church nor know the all whole history of the Pantheon. To experience the wonders that Rome make sure all your passport needs are in order including an application for a new US passport if needed, and don’t forget to apply for U.S. child passports for your children so they can experience the history of Rome.