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The Panthéon: Temple of heroes and heritage

The Panthéon, located in the Latin Quarter, was originally built as St. Genevieve’s Church, dedicated to the patron saint of Paris, but during the French Revolution, it was secularized and transformed into a national monument...

Founded On

1790

Founded By

Jacques-Germain Soufflot, Jean-Baptiste Rondelet

Paris Pantheon

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Pl. du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

Timings

10:00–18:00

TICKETS

From € 4.99

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

During the early 2000s, a secretive group called UX (Urban eXperiment) secretly built an underground cinema inside the Panthéon, complete with a screen, seating, and electricity. They were discovered in 2006.

The Panthéon's dome is three domes nested inside one another, creating an optical illusion when viewed from different angles. This gives the impression that it shifts and "breathes" as you move around it.

The Panthéon initially honored only men until 1995, when Marie Curie became the first woman entombed for her achievements in physics and chemistry.

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Paris Panthéon Reserved Access Tickets

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€13

Latin Quarter Guided Walking Tour

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1 hr. 30 min.

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€36

Combo (Save 5%): Panthéon Tickets + 1-Hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise

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Why visit the Panthéon?

1/5

Neo-classical architecture at its best

The Panthéon is inspired by Roman temples. Its massive dome, grand Corinthian columns, and intricately designed façade make it a masterpiece of 18th-century design by Jacques-Germain Soufflot.

Experiencing the Dome of the Panthéon in Paris

Visiting the dome of the Panthéon is an unforgettable experience, offering one of the best panoramic views of Paris.

Structure of the dome

The dome rises 83 meters (272 feet) above the ground and has a double shell structure: the outer dome is the visible, larger one, while the inner dome is smaller and provides structural integrity.
The drum of the dome is punctuated by large, round windows (called oculi), which let natural light flood the interior, illuminating the space.
The dome's design was revolutionary for its time, using a complex system of supports and architectural ingenuity to ensure stability while maintaining a sense of lightness and elegance.

The journey to the top

Accessing the dome requires climbing 206 steps.
The climb takes you through a spiral staircase and narrow corridors, adding to the adventure.
As you ascend, you’ll see architectural details up close, including the majestic columns and intricate stonework.

Reaching the Dome – what awaits you?

Once at the top, you’ll step onto an open-air terrace with a 360° panoramic view of Paris.
Get to see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Luxembourg Gardens, and more.
The best time for photos would be in the morning when there are fewer crowds and soft lighting. Catch the golden sunset view of Paris in the evening.

The atmosphere & sensation

The height (about 80m or 262 ft) gives you a feeling of floating above Paris.
The silence and fresh air contrast with the bustling city below.
You’ll feel connected to history, as great French figures honored in the Panthéon once stood beneath this very dome.

Things to know before you visit

Seasonal access: The dome is only open from April to October.
Weather dependent: It may close on rainy or windy days.
Extra ticket fee: Dome access usually requires an additional fee.
Physical demand: Not recommended for those with mobility issues.

The Crypt of Panthéon

The Crypt of the Panthéon is one of the monument's most fascinating and solemn parts. It serves as the final resting place for some of France’s most revered individuals, both in terms of intellectual achievement and national importance. The Crypt is both a symbol of French history and a place for contemplation of the nation's great figures.

Structure of the Crypt

It is located beneath the main floor of the Panthéon and is accessed by descending several flights of stairs.
The layout is circular, mirroring the shape of the building above. The walls are lined with massive pillars and niches, each housing the tombs of famous French personalities.

The historical significance of the Crypt

The Crypt was originally designed to be the burial place for the patron saint of Paris, Saint Geneviève, whose relics were moved there in the 18th century. However, after the French Revolution, the Panthéon was secularized and repurposed as a mausoleum for the nation’s great figures.
During the Revolution, many monuments to the saints and religious figures were removed, and the Crypt began to house more secular heroes.
The burial of Voltaire and Rousseau was a powerful statement during the Enlightenment, symbolizing the triumph of reason and free thought.

The tombs and monuments

Individual monuments: Some of the tombs have more elaborate structures, such as that of Victor Hugo, which is decorated with a statue of him. Jean Moulin’s tomb is adorned with a simple but poignant sculpture that symbolizes his commitment to freedom.
Collective monuments: In addition to individual tombs, there are some collective memorials for groups of important figures. For example, the Resistant Fighters' Memorial commemorates the French Resistance, with several key individuals from that movement resting there.

Brief history of the Panthéon

1758: Commissioned by King Louis XV as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, after he recovered from an illness.
1791: During the French Revolution, it was secularized and transformed into a mausoleum for notable French figures.
1806: Napoleon briefly restored it as a church, but it continued to serve both religious and secular purposes.
1830s-1850s: Switched between being a church and a secular monument multiple times, reflecting France's changing political landscape.
1885: Permanently became a national mausoleum with the burial of Victor Hugo.
20th-21st Century: More influential figures, including Marie Curie, Alexandre Dumas, and Simone Veil, were interred, making it a symbol of French history and achievements.
Today: A major historical and cultural landmark, featuring stunning architecture, Foucault’s Pendulum, and a panoramic dome view of Paris.

Deep dive into the history of the Panthéon

Architecture of the Panthéon

Facade

The Panthéon’s façade is a striking neoclassical feature, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman architecture, particularly the Pantheon in Rome.
Columns: The grand façade is defined by 22 massive Corinthian columns (12 in front and 10 along the sides), each made of limestone. Characterized by its elegant fluted columns, ornate capitals adorned with acanthus leaves, and intricate detailing, the Corinthian order enhances the neoclassical beauty of this historic monument.
Pediment: Above the columns is a triangular pediment, a triangular gable, typically found in classical architecture, that forms the top of a building's entrance or portico, adorned with a sculptural relief.
The entrance to the Panthéon is framed by the columns, which create a monumental portal leading into the interior.

Structural innovation

Double Dome construction: One of the most impressive engineering features of the Panthéon is the double dome system. This was one of the earliest uses of this technique in France and allowed for an elegant, visually light dome while maintaining structural strength.
Flying buttresses: To support the massive dome, Soufflot used a series of flying buttresses (arches that transfer the weight to the outer walls), which help distribute the weight and ensure the stability of the structure.
Use of stone: The Panthéon was constructed primarily from limestone, a material that is both strong and aesthetically pleasing. The building’s strength and durability were ensured by the careful choice of materials, as well as its careful engineering.

Renovations and modifications

In the 19th century, the dome was reinforced due to concerns about its structural stability.
After being secularized during the French Revolution, it was no longer a church and began its role as a mausoleum.
In the 20th century, additional restoration work was done on the frescoes and other elements to preserve its status.

Symbolism and iconography

The Panthéon was designed to be both a temple and a mausoleum, combining elements of religious architecture with the secular ideals of the French Revolution.
The Dome symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth, an homage to both the divine and the human achievements represented by the individuals buried here.
The columns, pediments, and arches, all draw inspiration from ancient Roman and Greek temples, reinforcing the idea that the Panthéon was a monument to the greatness of France.
The mosaics and paintings inside the building celebrate French history, particularly focusing on figures who contributed to the Enlightenment, science, literature, and politics.

Significance of the Panthéon today

The Panthéon in Paris remains important today as a symbol of French identity, history, and cultural heritage. As the national mausoleum, it honors France’s greatest minds—writers, scientists, and political figures—who shaped the nation’s intellectual and artistic legacy, including Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, and Josephine Baker. It stands as a reminder of France’s revolutionary values, reflecting the country’s commitment to liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Architecturally, its neoclassical design and grand dome make it one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world. Additionally, it serves as a scientific and educational site, famously housing Foucault’s Pendulum, which proved the Earth’s rotation.

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the Panthéon continues to be a place of national remembrance, hosting ceremonies that celebrate France’s legacy and the contributions of its most influential figures. As a living monument, it connects the past with the present, ensuring that the country’s history and ideals remain relevant to future generations.

Frequently asked questions about the Panthéon

Is the Panthéon in Paris still a religious building?

No, although it was originally built as a church dedicated to Saint Geneviève, the Panthéon was secularized during the French Revolution and now serves as a national mausoleum honoring France’s greatest figures.

What is written above the entrance of the Panthéon?

The inscription reads: "Aux grands hommes, la patrie reconnaissante" (To great men, the grateful nation), signifying its role as a place of tribute to those who shaped French history.

What scientific experiment took place inside the Panthéon?

In 1851, Léon Foucault conducted his famous pendulum experiment inside the Panthéon to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth. A replica of Foucault’s Pendulum still hangs inside today.

Who was the first person buried in the Panthéon?

The first person honored in the Panthéon was Honoré Mirabeau, a French writer, orator, and statesman, in 1791, though his remains were later removed. The first permanent internment was Voltaire, one of the greatest Enlightenment philosophers.

Is the Panthéon connected to the French Revolution?

Yes, the Panthéon in Paris was transformed into a secular mausoleum during the French Revolution to honor national heroes, reflecting revolutionary ideals of liberty and meritocracy.

Can you visit the Crypt?

The Crypt beneath the Panthéon is open to visitors and houses the tombs of France’s most important intellectuals, writers, scientists, and political figures.

Does the Panthéon have secret passages or hidden rooms?

The Crypt contains underground passages and chambers, some of which are closed to the public. These areas were historically used for ceremonies and burials.

Why is the Panthéon sometimes compared to the U.S. Capitol Building?

Both buildings share neoclassical architecture and a large central dome, reflecting a design inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. The Panthéon served as an influence on many government buildings worldwide.