Panthéon, University building and historic monument in Latin Quarter, Paris, France.
The Pantheon is a neoclassical building in Paris's Latin Quarter with an impressive triple-domed cupola and massive Corinthian columns across its facade. The interior is dominated by the main vault, beneath which a crypt extends containing historical tombs.
King Louis XV commissioned construction in 1744 following his recovery from a serious illness as an expression of gratitude. The project took approximately 50 years and was completed in 1790, establishing it as France's most important neoclassical monument.
The name references the ancient Roman Pantheon and reflects its purpose as a final resting place for honored citizens. Visitors encounter memorial plaques and tombs throughout the interior that span different periods of French history.
The building is open daily to visitors and provides both stairs and an elevator to access the main hall and dome areas. The best time to visit is in the morning when crowds are lighter, and note that crypt access may be restricted to guided tours.
Inside, Foucault's pendulum hangs from the central dome and demonstrates Earth's rotation through its constant motion. This physical experiment has been conducted continuously in the same location for over two centuries and draws visitors who want to observe the phenomenon.
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