The Pantheon – Paris

The Pantheon in Paris (Le Pantheon), was built as a result of King Louis XV’s determination to create an edifice to the glory of St-Genèvieve, the patron saint of Paris.

The Pantheon (Paris) history

“The Pantheon” means “Every God” and construction began in 1758 with the intention that the building be a church. However, it was completed just before the French Revolution in 1789 and the revolutionary government converted The Pantheon into a mausoleum for the interment of great Frenchmen.

The Pantheon’s crypt is now the burial place of many French icons and bears the inscription ‘Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante’, meaning “To the great men, the grateful homeland”.

During the turbulent years of the 19th century, as regimes changed, it alternated in its role as a religious and patriotic monument. Since 1885, the year of Victor Hugo’s death and burial in the Pantheon, it has been the last resting place for the great writers, scientists, generals, churchmen and politicians who have made the history of France. The crypt houses the tombs of more than 70 illustrious figures.

The Pantheon (Paris) today

As of today, those buried at the Pantheon include Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Émile Zola, Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Jean Moulin, Marie Skłodowska-Curie, and the architect of the Pantheon Jacques-Germain Soufflot. In fact, Soufflot died before the Pantheon was completed, meaning that his vision of a semi-gothic building with elements of basic principals was somewhat compromised.

This place is a not-to-miss attraction for history enthusiasts as it presents the marvelous architecture of neo-classicism. The façade, the most significant part of the building’s construction, the beauty of the architecture, leaves the visitors in awe.

Besides this, an alluring dome conquers the building which was made taking inspiration from great Bramante’s Tempietto. This heritage is in the heart of ancient Rome and invites thousands of visitors to enjoy the alluring display of classical architecture.

Guided tours of the Pantheon are available and last approximately 45 minutes.

Getting to The Pantheon (Paris)

The address of The Pantheon in pairs is Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris. The Pantheon does not have a private parking lot and is located on a car-free square. We thus recommend you to go with public transports.

If you are taking the metro The Pantheon is within a short walking distance of Cardinal Lemoine station on Line 10. If travelling via bus, use routes 21, 27, 38, 82, 84, 85, or 89 and make sure to get out at the bus stop Pantheon.