The Pantheon in Rome is one of the most iconic and well-preserved ancient structures in the world. Its design and construction have fascinated historians and architects for centuries. So, who built the Pantheon Rome?
The Architect
The Pantheon was designed by the Roman architect Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, who was a close friend and advisor to Emperor Augustus. Agrippa initially built a rectangular temple on this site in 27 BC, but it was later destroyed by fire.
Hadrian’s Contribution
In 118 AD, Emperor Hadrian commissioned the reconstruction of the Pantheon after its destruction. The new building featured a rotunda with a massive dome, which is the defining characteristic of the Pantheon we see today.
The Design
Agrippa’s original design for the Pantheon was inspired by Greek architecture and featured a traditional rectangular temple structure. However, Hadrian wanted something more grand and unique.
Under Hadrian’s direction, the architect Apollodorus of Damascus transformed Agrippa’s original design into a groundbreaking architectural marvel. The new design incorporated a circular dome with an oculus at its center.
The Dome:
- The dome of the Pantheon is made of concrete, which was a revolutionary building material at that time.
- It has a diameter of 43 meters (142 feet), making it one of the largest unreinforced concrete domes ever constructed.
- The oculus, or central opening at the top of the dome, measures about 8 meters (26 feet) in diameter.
The Rotunda:
- The rotunda, or cylindrical part of the Pantheon, is made of brick and concrete.
- It has a height equal to its diameter, creating a perfect sphere within the building.
- The interior walls of the rotunda are adorned with various marble finishes and decorative elements.
The Purpose
The Pantheon was dedicated as a temple to all the gods of ancient Rome. Its name “Pantheon” means “all the gods” in Greek. The grandeur and architectural ingenuity of this structure were intended to showcase the power and wealth of the Roman Empire.
Preservation and Influence
Remarkably, despite its age, the Pantheon has been well-preserved over the centuries. It is still in use today as a church, which has contributed to its maintenance and preservation.
The design and engineering techniques used in building the Pantheon have influenced countless architects throughout history. Its dome, in particular, inspired Renaissance architects such as Brunelleschi and Michelangelo.
In conclusion, while Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa laid the foundation for the original Pantheon, it was Emperor Hadrian who transformed it into one of Rome’s most magnificent architectural achievements. The Pantheon continues to captivate visitors with its awe-inspiring design and rich history.