Panthéon
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The Panthéon, majestically situated in the midst of the historic Quartier Latin in Paris, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of French history. Originally commissioned by King Louis XV as a church, the building was transformed into a mausoleum during the French Revolution to honor outstanding national figures. The impressive building, designed by Jacques-Germain Soufflot, combines classical elegance with monumental grandeur and houses the remains of significant French figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie. The Panthéon is a venerable place that embodies the veneration of scholars, writers, and visionaries who have shaped France's legacy.
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Your entrance ticket into the history of France
Paris: Panthéon Admission Ticket
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9 tips for visiting the Panthéon
The National Convention at the Panthéon
1
Research in advanceEducate yourself in advance about the lengthy history of the Panthéon and the personalities buried in the crypt. Understanding the significance of the building can only be enhanced by familiarity with its history, which is closely connected to the French Revolution. You can also find interesting facts further down on this page!
The Panthéon of Paris
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Appropriate clothesSince the Panthéon was originally built as a church, you should wear appropriate clothing. Revealing clothes like off-shoulder tops or short shorts are frowned upon.
3
View from the colonnade of the PanthéonThe Panthéon is located in the oldest district of Paris on a natural elevation of Sainte-Geneviève. A special view of the city of Paris can be enjoyed by walking around the Colonnade of the Panthéon. Since mid-2022, you can stroll through the colonnade spontaneously and without a guide. With a 360-degree view of Paris, you can spot among others the Centre Pompidou, Notre-Dame, the Montmartre hill with the Basilica of Sacré Coeur, the Hôtel des Invalides, or the Tour Montparnasse skyscraper. Stay for a while and enjoy the breathtaking view.
4
Church servicesShould you visit the Panthéon during a worship service, take part in it and experience the spiritual atmosphere. Visitors are always welcome.
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Photography is permittedThe Panthéon offers beautiful photo opportunities both inside and outside. So don't forget to take your camera with you or to have your phone fully charged.
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Explore the tombsThe Panthéon is considered the hall of fame of French heroes and revolutionaries. Currently, it is the final resting place for 81 personalities. In the crypt, you will find among others the graves of Marie and Pierre Curie, Louis Braille, Victor Hugo, and Voltaire.
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Admire the architectureWhether inside or outside the Panthéon; take your time to admire the architecture. The columns and the domes in particular are architectural masterpieces.
8
The Earth rotatesJean Bernard Léon Foucault, better known as simply “Léon Foucault”, is the namesake of the Foucault's Pendulum. This pendulum is suspended from the dome of the Panthéon on a 67 m (219.8 ft) long wire. With this, Foucault proved at the time that the Earth rotates.
9
Latin QuarterTake your visit as an opportunity to stroll through the Quartier Latin. Do as the Parisians do: get some fresh grapes, some cheese, a baguette and have a cozy picnic in one of the many charming parks.
The Panthéon, interior view
The Panthéon in Paris
The Foucault's Pendulum
A monument of French history and culture
Already in the 5th century CE, a Christian basilica stood on the hill of Sainte-Geneviève. Over the centuries, the church was rebuilt several times and served as the final resting place for Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, or Merovingian King Clovis I and his consort Clotilde. After a last reconstruction in the 12th century CE, the church fell into decay again. When King Louis XV was struggling with death due to an illness in 1744, he prayed to Saint Genevieve and vowed to build a magnificent church on the historic hill if he recovered. In 1755, he commissioned Jacques-Germain Soufflot to rebuild the church, which was also intended to restore the reputation of the Christian community.
The French Revolution and the Panthéon - A Testimony of Upheaval
The French Revolution of 1789 brought radical changes for France and the world. Originally planned as the church of Sainte-Geneviève, the Panthéon was turned into a secular mausoleum during the Revolution. It was intended not only to serve as a house of worship, but also as a final resting place for eminent personalities who exemplified the ideals of the Revolution. The transformation of the Panthéon symbolized the shift from monarchical and religious order to the Republic and underscored the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity that formed the bedrock of the Revolution. Today, the Panthéon remains a monument to those who paved the way for a modern and democratic society.Architecture
Architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot aimed for a synthesis of Classicism and innovative structures. Being a close friend of the brother of “Madame de Pompadour”, the mistress of King Louis XV, he received the commission for the immense church construction in the form of a Greek cross as a relatively unknown architect. The Corinthian columns holding up the majestic portico are reminiscent of Roman antiquity and grant the building timeless beauty.The interior of the Panthéon is marked by a clear, open structure. The crossing and altar area are spanned by a majestic dome, while the high clerestory provides generous lighting. The indoor walls are adorned with impressive murals and sculptural elements.
The true highlight of the Panthéon is undoubtedly its monumental dome, which defines the Paris skyline. The dome has a diameter of 27m (88,6ft) and rests on a cylindrical drum. The use of the round opening in the ceiling of the dome (Oculus) ensures natural lighting and gives the interior an atmospheric quality.
The graves in the Panthéon's crypt are arranged in niches and contribute to the majestic atmosphere of the place. The crypt, or lower church, extends across the entire building.
Soufflot’s visionary design has earned the Panthéon a firm place among the most outstanding buildings in the world and can therefore compete with the Pantheon in Rome or Saint Paul's Cathedral in London.
An intriguing architectural feature is the Foucault’s Pendulum, which was installed in 1851 by the French physicist Léon Foucault. It hangs on a 67m (219,8ft)long cable from the dome of the Panthéon and demonstrates the rotation of the Earth. It symbolizes not only scientific progress but also the unstoppable movement of time and advancement.
The Panthéon Today
The Panthéon remains not just a monument of the past, but also plays an active role in today's Paris. As a place for temporary exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events, it is a vibrant center that continues to inspire and connect the Parisian community. Nestled in the charming Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement, the oldest in Paris), the neighborhood around the Panthéon buzzes with student life, bookstores, and cozy cafés. Here, one can sense the spirit of bohemia and the pulse of the city while strolling through the cobblestone streets.The Crypt and the Grave of Voltaire and Émile Zola
Personalities in the Crypt
The Panthéon is a resting place for French greats, heroes, and revolutionaries. Here lie writers, scientists, and political thinkers. Visiting the crypt is a journey through France's intellectual history, a tribute to those who have shaped the world with their thoughts.
Marie and Pierre Curie
Marie was the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize and did so twice – once in Physics (1903, jointly with Pierre Curie and Henri Becquerel) and 1911 in Chemistry. The couple's work in the field of Physics and Chemistry laid the foundations of modern science. Marie Curie became an inspiring figure for future generations of scientists after the accidental death of her husband Pierre, particularly inspiring women to pursue their abilities. Her fame continued to grow after her death. Marie Curie became a national heroine and an embodiment of scientific genius. Biographies and film adaptations tell of her extraordinary life and the many challenges she had to face.Voltaire
Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet (1694–1778), was one of the most influential thinkers, writers, and philosophers of the European Enlightenment. Born in Paris, Voltaire distinguished himself with sharp intellectuality, a satirical style of writing, and an unwavering commitment to enlightenment values. His numerous works, including 'Candide' and 'Philosophical Pocket-Book', criticized religious intolerance, political arbitrariness, and social injustice. Voltaire's ideas significantly contributed to the shaping of modern concepts of freedom, tolerance, and freedom of speech. His passionate advocacy for rationality and reason made him a symbol of progress and a key figure in the intellectual heritage of the 18th century.Other significant personalities (excerpt)
Josephine Baker (1906-1975) was symbolically reinterred in the crypt. She was an African-American French singer, dancer, actress, as well as a resistance fighter and civil rights activist.Victor Hugo (1802-1885), writer and politician.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), philosopher, writer, educator, naturalist, and composer.
Émile Zola (1840-1902), writer, painter, and journalist.
Simone Veil (1927-2017), politician, member of the Académie française, and Holocaust survivor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any special rules for visiting the Panthéon?
Appropriate clothing is requested when visiting the Panthéon, as it is a historical and religious site. Photography is allowed, but the use of flash may be restricted. Read more.
How long does an average visit to the Panthéon last?
The duration of the visit depends on individual interests. Visitors usually spend about 1-2 hours there to explore the main areas. Read more.
Is the Pantheon suitable for people with disabilities?
The Panthéon offers visitors with disabilities an adapted service that meets their needs. Devices to improve the quality of the visit are provided on site. Read more.
Are there restaurants or cafes near the Panthéon?
Yes, in the 5th Arrondissement there are many establishments where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack. For example, we can suggest the restaurant “Le Comptoir du Panthéon” which serves French dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Café de la Nouvelle Mairie is a popular spot for coffee, snacks, and lunch. Read more.
General information
opening hours
Please note: On the first working Monday of each month, the Panthéon opens at 12:00 noon. On October 15, 2024, the Panthéon opens at 2:00 pm. On December 24th and 31st, the Panthéon closes at 5:00 pm (last admission at 4:15 pm).
Generally, the Panthéon is closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
address
Place du Panthéon
75005 Paris
website
tickets
how to get there
Written byJessica DonevJessica is the definition of Jack of all trades. When she wants to do something, she just does it. That's why Jessica is an event manager, professional dancer, trainer, content creator, speaker / presenter in training and much more. Having traveled the world a lot, she knows what's important when traveling and shares it with you here on TicketLens.
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