Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of Rome's oldest and most famous Roman Catholic churches, and its name means "Temple of all the Gods".

History

Early origins

The original Pantheon was built in 31 BCE by Marcus Agrippa, after the Battle of Actium. In 126 CE, it was restored to its current form by the Emperor Hadrian, however, it retained Agrippa's original inscription and dedication. The inscription reads "M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT" which translates to: "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, in his third consulate, made this".

Originally, the Pantheon was used to commemorate the Roman gods and goddesses, but it was converted into a church by Pope Boniface IV in 609. Both the name and style of the building have inspired similar churches in Europe, most notably a second Pantheon in Paris, France.

Renaissance

During the Renaissance, the Assassin Ezio Auditore da Firenze climbed the rear of the building and entered through the landmark's oculus to assassinate a guard captain named Luigi Torcelli. This allowed him to disguise himself in the guard's uniform, before he set off to find "the Banker".

Also, during his time in Rome, Ezio purchased the Pantheon as a landmark.

Trivia

• The Pantheon played a part in the simulated location of Rome for the first and second stage of the Animi Training Program, although Abstergo recruits could not go inside its interior or climb to the Pantheon's rooftop.
• Whether it was day or night in Brotherhood, there was always a column of light shining down from the Pantheon's oculus.
• Upon entering the Pantheon, the echoing voice of the herald behind the building could be heard.

Gallery

• 
  Concept of Assassins by the Pantheon
• 
  Concept of the Pantheon at night
• 
  Concept art of the Pantheon market
• 
  The interior of the Pantheon
• 
  The Pantheon in the Animi Training Program

Reference

• Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood