We started off our third day in Rome by seeing the Pantheon. This architectural marvel is one of the best preserved Roman buildings. The famous concrete dome was the largest on earth for about 1300 years. It survived as well as it has by going from a temple to a church and remaining in continuous use for all these years.
The scale and symmetry were astonishing.
I was struck by how colorful it was inside. Almost nothing was painted, everything on the walls was a different type of stone. The marble was white, grey, peach, green, yellow, and red - all patterned and expertly set in place.
The alter for the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs.
The door and the oculus remain the only sources of light.
Even the floor was beautifully designed with different types of marble.
The Chapel of the Annunciation. Attributed to Melozzo da Forlì, early 16th century.
The massive doors are the originals and among the oldest bronze doors in the world.
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| Myself with dad and mom. |
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| Myself, Jenny, Liz, dad, and mom. |
The Egyptian obelisk in front of the Pantheon. It was moved to Rome in the 1700’s but was originally erected during the reign of Ramesses II.
The columns are all monoliths and were quarried in Egypt.
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| Myself and Jenny. |
It was breathtaking to see a 2,000 year old building in such remarkable condition. Still appreciated and inspiring people everyday.
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