Differences between Pantheon and Parthenon

Pantheon vs. Parthenon

The Pantheon in Rome and the Parthenon in Athens are two of the most well-known ancient temples, though they are frequently confused due to their similar-sounding names. The Parthenon is a Greek temple located on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, while the Pantheon is a Roman temple situated in Rome, Italy. The Parthenon is considerably older, having been constructed in the 5th century BCE, whereas the current Pantheon was built in the 2nd century CE.

The Parthenon was dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron of Athens. In contrast, the Pantheon was intended as a temple for all of the Roman gods. The design and materials of the two structures also show significant differences. The Parthenon is an example of the Doric order, with some Ionic features, and is constructed primarily from Pentelic marble. The Pantheon features a Corinthian-style portico but is most recognized for its large, circular rotunda and unreinforced concrete dome.

The preservation state of the two buildings is notably different. The Pantheon remains one of the best-preserved ancient Roman structures, largely due to its continuous use, including its conversion to a Catholic church in the 7th century. The Parthenon, on the other hand, exists in a state of ruin, having sustained significant damage over time, including a major explosion in 1687.

Comparison Table

Category	Pantheon	Parthenon
Location	Rome, Italy	Athens, Greece
Civilization	Roman	Greek
Date of Construction	c. 126 CE (current structure)	447–432 BCE
Original Purpose	Temple dedicated to all Roman gods	Temple dedicated to the goddess Athena
Architectural Style	Roman with a Corinthian portico and a large rotunda with a dome	Primarily Doric with Ionic elements
Primary Materials	Concrete with brick, marble, and granite	Pentelic marble
Key Feature	Large unreinforced concrete dome with an oculus	Post-and-lintel system with tall Doric columns
Current Status	| Ruin; a museum and archaeological site

Venn diagram comparing Differences between Pantheon and Parthenon

Architecture and Design

The architectural design of the Parthenon is considered the culmination of the Doric order. It is a peripteral octastyle temple, meaning it is surrounded by columns on all sides, with eight columns across the front. The structure primarily utilizes a post-and-lintel system, a simple construction method where horizontal beams (lintels) are placed across vertical posts (columns). The building is constructed entirely of Pentelic marble.

The Pantheon's design is notable for its combination of a traditional Greek-style portico with a massive circular chamber, or rotunda. This rotunda is covered by the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, a testament to the ingenuity of Roman engineering. The dome features a central opening, known as the oculus, which is the only source of natural light. The Romans used different aggregates in the concrete to reduce the dome's weight, with heavier materials at the base and lighter, porous stones like pumice near the top.

Later History and Conversion

The history of both temples following their initial use is marked by transformation. The Parthenon was used as a temple for Athena for nearly a thousand years. In the final decade of the 6th century, it was converted into a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later, under Ottoman rule, it became a mosque. In 1687, during a siege by the Venetians, the Parthenon was being used as a gunpowder store, and an explosion severely damaged the structure, leaving it in the ruined state seen today.

The Pantheon's fate was different, which accounts for its superior state of preservation. In 609 CE, it was consecrated as a Christian church, the Basilica of St. Mary and the Martyrs. This conversion ensured its continuous use and protection from abandonment and plunder that befell many other ancient Roman buildings. Today, it continues to function as a Catholic church and is a popular tourist destination. It also serves as the burial place for notable Italians, including the artist Raphael and two Italian kings.