{"id":46948,"date":"2018-01-15T14:26:47","date_gmt":"2018-01-15T18:26:47","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.italyperfect.com\/blog\/?p=46948"},"modified":"2025-10-16T12:17:07","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T16:17:07","slug":"4-great-stops-visiting-pantheon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.italyperfect.com\/blog\/4-great-stops-visiting-pantheon.html","title":{"rendered":"4 Great Stops When Visiting the Pantheon"},"content":{"rendered":"

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As one of Rome\u2019s most awe-inspiring landmarks, the Pantheon<\/strong><\/a> is a masterpiece of ancient engineering that has stood for nearly 2,000 years. Built in 126 AD, it\u2019s a single, massive concrete structure \u2013 and remarkably, the Roman formula has proven more durable than the kind we use today. The concrete mixture was made successively lighter from bottom to top by using ever lighter components, with porous lava rock at the highest level. Step inside and you\u2019ll be awed by the perfect geometry of its dome, crowned by the great circular oculus that opens to the sky. Its influence can be seen in grand domed buildings across the world\u2014from the Panth\u00e9on in Paris to the U.S. Capitol and the National Gallery in Washington, D.C., as well as Manchester\u2019s Central Library\u2014all of which echo the Pantheon\u2019s timeless geometry.<\/p>\n

To make the most of your visit, plan ahead and book a fast-track ticket with audio guide<\/a><\/strong> since it\u2019s the easiest way to skip the often-long lines and discover the monument\u2019s fascinating history at your own pace.<\/p>\n

Once you\u2019ve admired the Pantheon, plan to spend some time exploring the neighborhood. Within just a few minutes\u2019 walk, you\u2019ll find world-class art, Italian craftsmanship and some of Rome\u2019s most delicious gelato. Here are four great stops to add to your itinerary near the Pantheon.<\/p>\n

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See three paintings by Caravaggio at the Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi in Rome. (credit<\/a>)<\/p><\/div>\n

1. Church of San Luigi dei Francesi<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Just a short stroll from the Pantheon, this elegant church is home to three masterpieces by Caravaggio, including The Calling of Saint Matthew<\/em>. Seeing them in person is unforgettable! The dramatic play of light and shadow reveals why Caravaggio\u2019s work transformed Baroque art. Entry is free, though you may need a coin to illuminate the paintings. (Piazza di San Luigi de\u2019 Francesi)<\/p>\n

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A post shared by Co.Ro.Jewels (@co.ro.jewels)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n