Pantheon

The Pantheon was one of Rome's oldest and most famous Roman Catholic churches. The word "Pantheon" means "Temple of all the Gods".

History

The original Pantheon was built in 31 BC by Marcus Agrippa after the Battle of Actium. In 126 A.D. it was restored to its current form by the Emperor Hadrian, however, retaining Agrippa's original inscription and dedication. The inscription reads M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT and the translation to English says: "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, in his third consulate, made this". It was used to commemorate the Roman gods and goddesses originally, but 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.

Database Entry

This architectural wonder still stands as the worlds largest unreinforced concrete dome two thousand years after being built. The opening at the dome's centre (known as an Oculus) is the singular source of light for the immense chamber. Constructed in 126 C.E. by Marcus Agrippa as a temple to all the Ancient Roman gods, the Pantheon has since become a beacon of Christianity. The structure has been burned, rebuilt, robbed, modified, torn down and renovated so many times the interior contains a myriad of conflicting icons and symbols. Apparently, most gods had this building constructed in their honour. I, however, recommend worshipping at the modern-day espresso bars surrounding it.

Trivia

• The Pantheon is the only major landmark available in the Rome multiplayer map of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, although you cannot go inside or on the rooftop.
• Whether it is day or night, there is always a column of light from the oculus.

Gallery

• Artwork depicting the Pantheon.
  Artwork depicting the Pantheon.
• Riding on a horse towards the Pantheon.
  Riding on a horse towards the Pantheon.
• The Pantheon in the Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer.
  The Pantheon in the Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Multiplayer.
• The interior of the Pantheon.
  The interior of the Pantheon.
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  Original concept artwork.
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  Original artwork of Pantheon at night.
• Panoramic view of the Pantheon square.
  Panoramic view of the Pantheon square.