Attraction
Colosseum
The Flavian Amphitheatre, completed in AD 80 under Titus, is Rome's defining ancient monument and the centrepiece of the Parco archeologico del Colosseo.
Pantheon
Rebuilt under Hadrian around AD 126, the Pantheon still has the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome and has served as a church since 609.
At a glance
- Type
- Roman temple and church
- Area
- Centro Storico, Rome, Italy
- Opening
- Open daily · 09:00–19:00
- Official site
- pantheonroma.com
Good to know
- Audio guides
- Guided tours
- Free entry first Sunday of the month
Why we recommend it
The Pantheon is the best-preserved building of ancient Rome. Hadrian rebuilt Agrippa's original temple around AD 126, and in 609 it was consecrated as the church of Santa Maria ad Martyres, which helped save it. Its coffered concrete dome spans about 43 metres and is lit only by the open oculus and the great bronze doors.
Stand in the centre and look up, then walk the perimeter to find the tomb of Raphael and the burials of Italy's first kings. A ticket is now needed to enter, and booking ahead saves queuing in Piazza della Rotonda; entry is free on the first Sunday of the month. Visit soon after the 9:00 opening for the quietest experience, then take a coffee at one of the historic bars nearby.
Pantheon FAQs
When is the Pantheon open?
Every day from 9:00 to 19:00, with last entry at 18:30.
Is there a free day?
Yes, entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.