The Pantheon

The Pantheon (Greek for “of all gods”) is a former pagan temple. The building’s architecture makes it a site that more than 6 million people visit every year. It is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings, in large part because it has been in continuous use throughout its history.

Since AD 609 the Pantheon has been the site of a Catholic church. The fact that a temple that stood so majestically for pantheism has stood now for 1400 years as a symbol of Christ’s sovereign reign is a reminder that God is always working history for his purposes and ultimately for the good of those who follow him, even if not in the timing one would expect.

While here, look for these two features:

Oculus: A central opening to the sky, the Oculus is the only source of natural light in the Pantheon. As you look at this light, imagine the presence of the Holy Spirit illuminating the space as a reminder of God’s guidance and presence in the world.

Dome: Almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon’s coffered dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Observe the architecture of the Pantheon, with its perfect proportions and harmonious design, and reflect on the divine order and the grandeur of God’s creation.