Pantheon: Meeting the Great Men
Intended to be a church, with a magnificent architecture, the Pantheon is now the place where are burried the 'Great men' of the nation. But do you know who is in charge to choose the candidates to 'pantheonize'? Which common criterias link all the famous people of the Pantheon?
The paintings of the ground floor tell us the stories of the country while the graves of the crypt show us how each person can change history.
The notion itself of 'Great men' evolved since few 'Great women' joined them.
Standard duration: 1.5 hrs to 2 hrs
Price: 250€ (up to 30 people) The location of hearing system is recommended beyond 10 people
Flat price. Tickets not included. Location: 2€/person for a half day
We will see together: the architecture, the paintings of the ground floor, the concept of Great Men, the crypt with the tombs (Marie Curie, Victor Hugo, Rousseau, Voltaire and many others) and possibly the view from the dome
Other tours in the same area: Latin Quarter, St. Germain des Prés
© Caroline Weber
From what age is the tour recommended?
Generally speaking, the Pantheon is for everyone. We mainly speak about history of France or the life course of the famous people there. I recommend this tour from 6 years old.
How long is the tour?
1.5 hours is enough to understand the building and see the most famous pantheonized people. If you are in no hurry, we can see more of them in a 2 hours tour. To visit the dome, count 20 minutes.
Is there a day we cannot visit the Pantheon?
The Pantheon is opened every days of the year, except on some public holidays (January 1, May 1, December 25). The dome is closed during winter.
Is the Pantheon crowded?
In general, the Pantheon is not crowded. Though it is very visible and central in Paris, it is surprisingly still a spot off the beaten track once inside!
Is this visit wheelchair accesible ?
Unfortunately, it is not. There are few steps to enter in the building, 40 more steps to go downstairs and see the crypt. If you want to visit the dome, there are 286 steps. to go to the top.
Good to know
In winter, the monument is quite cold. Dress well if you don't want to freeze.
In summer, it is fresh. Get a light vest or jacket just in case.
There are different kinds of tickets, which can include the dome if you desire to see the view.