When in Rome; it's Not Just About the Coliseum

If you have ever been to Rome, or want to go, one of the first iconic sites that comes to mind is the Coliseum.  It is a fascinating place full of history.  However, take a moment to consider the Pantheon.  Built in the days of the Emperor Augustus by Marcus Agrippa, it is over 2000 years old and an architectural wonder.  It was completed by Hadrian sometime before 125 AD.

 

The interior is lit only by one window at the very top of the structure called the oculus.  Throughout the day, the natural sunlight from the oculus moves around the interior creating a sundial effect. It also serves as cooling and ventilation. There is a drainage system in the floor that handles any rain coming through the oculus.

Originally, the Pantheon was created to honor all pagan gods and later turned into a Catholic church called Santa Maria ad Martyres.  You can still attend mass there on Sundays.

Recently, a USAToday reporter did a video regarding the building.  It is worth the four and a half minutes to watch. Click the image to go to the link.

 A presto!