The Pantheon is the best-preserved building from ancient Rome, a 2nd-century AD temple converted into a church in the 7th century. The unreinforced concrete dome was the largest in the world for 1,300 years and remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built. The 9-metre oculus at the centre is the only light source — when it rains, drainage holes in the floor below carry the water away. The interior houses the tombs of Raphael and the first two kings of unified Italy. Mass is held Sundays and admission is free during services.
Ticket
€5 (free for residents and during Mass)
Visit time
20–45 minutes
Type
religious
UNESCO
World Heritage Site
When to visit
Late afternoon for the oculus light, or right at 9am opening
Skip-the-line tip
The Pantheon now charges €5 entry (changed from free admission in 2023). Pre-book online to skip the queue in summer; mid-day queues run 30–45 minutes. Visiting during a Sunday Mass is free but you can't walk around.
Tours including Pantheon
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Pantheon cost?
The Pantheon costs €5 for visitors. Entry is free for Rome residents and free for everyone during Sunday Mass services. Tickets can be pre-booked online to skip the queue.
How long do you need at the Pantheon?
Plan 20–45 minutes — the interior is a single rotunda, but the dome and oculus reward extended viewing. A guided tour adds 15 minutes of architectural context; many Rome walking tours include a Pantheon stop.
When is the best time to visit the Pantheon?
Right at 9am opening or in the last hour before close. The mid-afternoon (1–4pm) sees the longest queues. The oculus light angles into the dome dramatically around 11am in spring/autumn.
Is the Pantheon worth visiting?
Yes — it is the best-preserved ancient Roman building and a 30-minute visit is one of the highest-impact uses of time in Rome. The €5 entry is a bargain compared to most major attractions.