The Pantheon: A Stage Between Heaven and Earth

Larger than life: Art that inspires us through the ages

From the Piazza della Rotonda, the temple presents a standard temple front with a triangular pediment (structure above the lintel, or roof) sitting above a row of eight columns forming the front of the portico. The massive concrete dome rises up behind the portico, supported by thick brick and concrete walls shaped as a drum to support the dome. picturepixx/Shutterstock

The Pantheon has held an empowering effect on the individual and humanity for nearly 2,000 years and stands as one of the most significant classical buildings in history. It was built by Emperor Hadrian in the second century and is located in the Piazza della Rotonda, a city square in the center of Rome.

The size of the interior space is awe-inspiring. Columns line the room with blind doorways and niches. A second story of blind windows seemingly connects to spaces beyond, giving a sense of being surrounded by buildings in a town piazza, rather than an interior space.