The Pantheon, Rome |
Central Skylight, or Oculus, in the Pantheon Dome |
This dome was so amazing that Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi came to Rome centuries later and got permission to cut into the Pantheon's dome to study its structure. The spot where Brunelleschi cut can still be seen.
Brunelleschi's Cut in the Pantheon Dome |
He returned to the city of Florence where the cathedral had a gap in its ceiling – no one at the time knew how to bridge such an large expanse. Inspired by what he'd learned at the Pantheon, Brunelleschi covered the opening. Santa Maria del Fiore with its distinctive red dome is now known as Il Duomo.
Santa Maria del Fiori, Florence |
The Pantheon also inspired another great Renaissance dome, that of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. This was Michelangelo's last project and is now the largest dome in the world.
The Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City |
Interior of Michelangelo's Dome |
The creative inspiration that began at the Pantheon in Rome continued on to influence more domes at St. Paul's Cathedral in London and the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. – not bad for an idea 2,000 years old.
Next: "E" is for Eruption
Lovely photos, especially the one of St. Peter's dome.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Denise!
DeleteSome day I want to go to Rome. Been to Italy but didn't make it to Rome. One day... Thanks for sharing this on the A to Z! Lisa, co-host AtoZ 2015, @ http://www.lisabuiecollard.com
ReplyDeleteI actually prefer some of the smaller towns in Italy but Rome has some magnificent sights. I hope you make it to the Eternal City one day!
DeleteI would love to see the Pantheon. I imagine I'd get chills.
ReplyDeleteThose pictures are amazing!
-Chrys Fey
Tremp’s Troops - A to Z Co-co-host
Write with Fey
Thanks, Chrys. There is something special about the Pantheon. I don't know if it's the architecture or the history – probably both!
DeleteThank you for reminding us to Look Up!!!
ReplyDeleteBeth
BethLapinsAtoZblog.wordpress.com
And that can be tricky at times with the bumpy cobblestone streets in Europe. But there's something to see all around you.
DeleteThank you for reminding up to Look Up!
ReplyDeleteBeth
Beth@BethLapin.com
Beautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Helen.
DeleteLovely photostory! You have captured the dome and the architecture very well.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeletePerfect angle to take this shot. I was impressed that this structure is still standing in such good shape with the dome opening.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rhonda. The Romans really knew what they were doing, didn't they?
DeleteWow! These are beautiful. It's been my dream for as long as I can remember to make it to Italy to soak up the history and culture. Here's hoping!
ReplyDeleteBrandy from Brandy's Bustlings
Thank you. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!
DeleteAhh the Pantheon. On my very first trip to Rome, my hotel was no more than 100 yards from that stunning domed building. I saw it every day and probably went in it every day, and yet, never saw the cut. I'll have a look next time I'm there and impress my companions with my knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI must give credit to our excellent local tour guide for pointing out the cut. I would never have noticed it myself otherwise, or known its significance.
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