The Art of Rome Magic

; Angel Playing the Viola by Melozzo de Forli (degli Ambrosi) Vatican Museum

The Art of Rome Magic: The Pantheon, Inspiring, Haunting

The Art of Rome Magic of the Pantheon makes me ‘see’ life in a new way. Michelangelo thought this temple was built by the Angels. Unbelievable that I’m mingling with Romans on the cobblestones, in awe of the Pantheon, just as others have done for thousands of years!

First of all, the Pantheon is one of the greatest wonders of all Roman Art. This magnificent temple was first built to honor ‘all the Gods’ around 27 BC. After some fires, Emperor Hadrian rebuilt it in AD 120. Today, modern engineers wonder how Romans made this so perfectly without modern equipment, electricity, or computers.

Also, Sacred Geometry fills the Pantheon in its mathematically precise measurements. Perfect circles, spheres, cubes, and the ever present circle within the square, cover the Pantheon. Furthermore, it lies in perfect axis alignment with Augustus’ mausoleum and other Ancient Sites. How did they do that? Twenty-eight niche ‘coffers’, are perfectly spaced and symbolize the mystical connections to the cosmos. The Dome puts the World below in order.

Although the entryway is influenced by the highly respected Greek architects, the inner rotunda is purely Roman. Furthermore, enter the rotunda to be surrounded by 40 ft high Egyptian single pieces of reddish granite columns, each topped with Roman capitals. They stand enormous and breathtaking in their height and volume, therefore placing the little human in awe of the Gods.

Finally, look up to the magnificent, unsupported giant dome that became the model for all domes to come. Because of the perfectly centered ocular opening above, one feels the eyes of the Gods watching over all. Also, this dome is a perfect 142 ft high and wide, made of some form of concrete, with the walls thinning the higher it goes. It is a mystery how this amazing structure has withstood the passing of time, barbarian raids, and gravity. Truly one of the wonders of the ancient world!

Time does slow down here. The Art of Rome Magic has transported me to another time, another feeling, another world. While this fascinating structure still holds many mysteries, I feel so lucky to be able to immerse myself  into its many wonders.

 Look closely at the Ordinary to discover the Extraordinary in every aspect of life.

Painting of the Pantheon by 18th Century artist Giovanni Paolo Panini. See how the sun shines through the oculus.