Pantheon Roof Hole Rain

Now historians have come up with an intriguing explanation for the feature it was built as a sundial.

Pantheon roof hole rain.

In practice rain seldom falls inside the dome. From above the pantheon s 19 foot oculus the hole at the top of the dome is an obvious opening to the elements. The huge 30ft hole built into the dome of rome s pantheon has mystified minds for centuries. And at least partially to let out smoke from candles lamps and torches you have to remember that at the time the pantheon was built the only forms of artificial light that existed were candles torches and oil lamps.

Rain falling thru the pantheon roof in rome italy. These were very inadequate for most situations. However some days are particularly special and that includes pentecost at the pantheon. Obviously being open to the elements means it also rains inside the pantheon but a gently sloping floor and 22 well hidden holes help the water to drain away.

The hole oculus 7 8 meters in diameter is the only source of light and is the connection between the temple and the gods above. Another beautiful effect takes place at pentecost when rose petals are sprinkled through the oculus after the annual mass. The hole in the top of the pantheon was to let in light and air. Rain occasionally fall through it but the floor is slanted and drains the water if it manages to hit the floor.

Air would be sucked in to replace that air from other openings lower down of course. The pantheon is the world s oldest building in continuous use.