The Pantheon is an ancient Roman temple completed under Emperor Hadrian around AD 126, and it still holds the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Since the 7th century it has served as the working basilica of Santa Maria ad Martyres, and it houses the tombs of Raphael and Italy's first kings. Sitting at the center of Piazza della Rotonda, it is a natural anchor for exploring Rome's historic core on foot.
A perfect hemispherical dome whose diameter and height are identical at 43 m, crowned by the open oculus (about 9 m across) to the sky
On rainy days, watching rain fall through the oculus and vanish into the ancient drainage; a shifting beam of light sweeping the walls near midday
The tomb of Renaissance master Raphael (died 1520), in a niche to the left of the entrance
Royal tombs of the unified Kingdom of Italy: kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I, and Queen Margherita
The grand portico with 16 granite Corinthian columns and the coffered ceiling of the circular interior
Good to know
RulesEntry has largely shifted to a paid, timed-reservation system. The adult fee rose to about €7 from 1 July 2026 (previously €5), so confirm the current price and whether booking is required on the official Musei italiani site. On free days such as the first Sunday of the month, there is no online booking—you queue on site.
MannersThis is not just a monument but an active basilica. Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid overly short or transparent clothing. Keep quiet inside; eating, drinking, and smoking are forbidden.
RulesDuring Mass (Saturdays and vigils at 17:00, Sundays and holidays at 10:30), entry is reserved for worshippers and general sightseeing is restricted. If you are visiting to look around, schedule outside Mass times.
CautionIn Piazza della Rotonda, watch for the 'friendship bracelet' scam—someone ties a bracelet on your wrist or presses it into your hand as a 'free gift,' then demands payment—and petition-signing distractions while an accomplice picks your pocket. Don't accept handed items; refuse firmly and keep walking.
SafetyPickpockets concentrate around the Pantheon, on Rome's public transport, and in dense crowds. Wear your bag in front, keep crossbody straps on your chest, keep zippers closed, and never take your eyes off your belongings while queuing.
SeasonIt is extremely crowded from 11:00 to 15:00. It is calmest right at opening (arrive around 8:45) or after 15:30. July and August bring heat and long lines, so aim for early morning or evening; spring and autumn (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov) are the best seasons.
Practical info
Hours: daily 09:00–19:00 (last entry 30 minutes before closing), closed 1 Jan, 15 Aug, 25 Dec. On Piazza della Rotonda, an easy walk from the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. Confirm the latest fees, hours, and reservation rules on the official site before your visit.
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