Italy is a beautiful country that boasts many historic cities and sites. Rome is infamous for its architecture and history. The Pantheon is one of the top sites to visit when in Rome. It is a structure built for the gods, literally. It was an ancient temple that still stands today. In order to see this structure one needs to make sure their passport is in order or apply for a new pass port so that travel to Rome possible.

Passports

Passports are necessary travel documents. They allow travel between countries. Anyone who wishes to travel out of the country must have a passport. Getting a passport used to be difficult, now with online services and technology it’s much easier. Obtaining all the proper documentation is necessary before applying for a passport. You can also enlist the services of a passport agency to help you get your US child passports on time.

History

The Pantheon of Rome was between 27 B.C.E. and 25 B.C.E. it was built in honor of the victory over Antony and Cleopatra who were defeated by Actium. The original Pantheon burned down around 80 C.E. It was then restored in 125 C.E. by the emperor Hadrian. It was built as a fully functional temple to the pagan gods of Rome. It maintained its function for over two centuries.

Structure

The structure of the Pantheon was unique for it’s time. It was a circular building with the only light coming in from an opening in the ceiling at the center, known as the oculus. During it’s time a temple various statues of deities filled the temple and animal sacrifices to the deities were performed in the center allowing the smoke to exit through the oculus.

Christianity

When Christianity took over Rome the Pantheon was abandoned. At the time it was illegal for any public worship of the pagan deities. However, later there was an order that decreed all buildings used. It eventually became a Christian Church. It was consecrated in the name of the Virgin Mary as the Church of Santa Maria Ad Martyers. It was dedicated to the saints and martyrs as well. This kept the theme of “pan” going.

Michelangelo

The Pantheon went through many changes and uses it was robbed a few times and stripped of its goods such as the Bronze doors. Eventually it was fully restored. In the 16th century Michelangelo studied the Pantheon, the Pantheon inspired the dome of St. Peter at the Vatican which is only a few feet smaller.

Inspiration

Now the Pantheon is a historic site to see, it was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1980. It has been the inspiration for many buildings today. These buildings include the British Museum Reading Room, The Tomas Jefferson Rotunda at the University of Virginia, The Low Library at Columbia University and the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia.

To experience the wonders that Rome make sure all your passport needs are in order including an application for a new passport if needed, and don’t forget to apply for child pasports for your children so they can experience the history of Rome.