Pantheon

The Pantheon was built as a Roman temple to all (pan) gods (theos).  Although originally built by Marcus Agrippa, whose name is inscribed across the front, the current structure was completely rebuilt by the emperor Hadrian around AD 120.  This building has survived the centuries and appears today much as it did when it was built.  One of its most astounding features is the mathematical precision in which it was built.  Thomas Jefferson was so inspired by this building, he spent many hours here and used it as the basis for his design of the Rotunda at the University of Virginia.  The dome of the Pantheon served as the inspiration of the dome of the Duomo in Florence, which inspired Michelangelo's dome of St. Peter's Basilica.

Unlike the Colosseum and Roman Forum which sit prominently within the center of Rome, the Pantheon is tucked away off of the main streets and fronts a small piazza.  Depending upon the direction from which you enter the square, you just turn the corner and "bam!"there it is.  We visited during our last night in Rome, and the piazza was a hotbed of activity.  After walking through the Pantheon, we walked over to Piazza Navone, another lively square where local artists sell their work and street performers try to earn a euro or two.   It was a nice way to finish our last night in Rome -- experiencing its history as well as its liveliness.