Let’s visit the Pantheon, one of the iconic landmarks of Rome! It sits on the south side of the Piazza della Rotonda with an imposing fountain just in front. The piazza takes its name from the local nickname of the pantheon, the rotunda. It seems like there is always something exciting happening in this piazza. I often see opera singers or musicians serenading the crowd as they dine at cafés or wait in line to go in the Pantheon. Sometimes there are even horse-drawn carriages to whisk one off to all the iconic sites.
The Pantheon itself is a magnificent achievement in classical architecture. Even today it is the largest unsupported dome in the world. The construction of the dome is genius. Using only concrete and arches, they built a structure that was able to withstand millennia. The secret is that the higher the dome goes the thinner and lighter the concrete becomes. Walls that support this massive dome contain hidden arches to channel the weight.
The Pantheon was originally built over 2000 years ago in 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa as a gift to the city of Rome. He was a pivotal figure in Rome's history, not only a celebrated general and architect but also a close associate and family member of Augustus, contributing significantly to the architectural renaissance during the Pax Romana. Despite the original Pantheon's destruction by fire in 80 AD and again 110 AD after a lightening strike, it was rebuilt.
In this painting you see the third Pantheon which was completed in 125 AD by the Emperor Trajan. As was his custom, he kept the inscription of the original building as a tribute to Marcus Agrippa. You can see it on the pediment just above the pillars. It reads “M. AGRIPPA L.F. COS TERTIUM FECIT” which means “Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, three-time consul, made this”.
Transformed into a Christian church in 609 AD, the Pantheon's survival through the ages is a testament to its enduring significance.
This watercolor is one of my most popular paintings. Through it I aim to portray the blend of historical grandeur and architectural magnificence of the Pantheon. Join me in appreciating this masterpiece, a symbol of Rome's rich past and enduring beauty.
16x12 watercolor by Kimberly Cammerata
Paper: 100% cotton, archival, Arches Cold press 140 lb (300 gsm)
Completed Aug 17, 2017