Pantheon Paris — History, Storyline, Tours & Visitor Info
Discover the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter: a neoclassical landmark with Foucault’s pendulum, a national crypt, and—seasonally—dome views over Paris. Plan an inspiring Left Bank visit.
Panthéon Admission from €13Why Visit the Panthéon?
A masterpiece of French neoclassicism, the Panthéon was conceived as the Church of Sainte-Geneviève and transformed during the Revolution into a temple honoring the nation’s great figures. Its triple-shell dome, grand portico, and serene crypt make it one of Paris’s most meaningful monuments.
Iconic Dome & Portico
Soufflot’s design fuses classical purity with structural lightness—best admired from the parvis.
Pendulum & Crypt
Foucault visualized Earth’s rotation here; the crypt honors writers, scientists, and statesmen.
Quick Timeline
- 1758 — Louis XV commissions a new church to Sainte-Geneviève; architect: J.-G. Soufflot.
- 1791 — During the Revolution, the church is secularized as the Panthéon.
- 1791–1794 — Voltaire (1791) and Rousseau (1794) are transferred to the crypt.
- 1851 — Foucault demonstrates Earth’s rotation with his famous pendulum.
- 1885 — Victor Hugo receives a state funeral; the Panthéon’s civic role is reaffirmed.
- 1908–1964 — Émile Zola reinterred (1908); Jean Moulin honored (1964).
- 1995 — Marie Curie reinterred—the first woman honored here on her own merits.
- 2018–2021 — Simone Veil (2018) and Joséphine Baker (2021, cenotaph) join the memorials.
Top Experiences
Panthéon Admission Ticket
Explore the nave, see Foucault’s pendulum, and visit the crypt at your own pace.
Panthéon + Seine River Cruise
Combine culture with a relaxing cruise for classic Left Bank views.
Old Town & Latin Quarter Walk
Unpack the neighborhood’s stories—from the Sorbonne to hidden lanes.
Paris Museum Pass
Visit multiple museums and monuments—often including the Panthéon—over 2, 4, or 6 days.
Architecture & Storyline
Neoclassical Vision
Soufflot’s goal was to marry Gothic lightness with classical order. The building’s Greek-cross plan, colonnaded portico, and triple-shell dome create a luminous, balanced space that remains structurally daring.
- Grand portico inspired by ancient temples.
- Painted and sculpted programs celebrating the French nation.
- Acoustics and proportion designed for clarity and calm.
From Shrine to Mausoleum
Conceived as a church to Saint Geneviève, the site became a civic pantheon during the Revolution. Since then it has honored writers, scientists, resistance heroes, and statespersons—reflecting evolving French memory.
Look For
David d’Angers’ pediment relief, the soaring dome vistas (seasonal access), the elegant pendulum, and the crypt galleries.
Insider Tips
Dome Access Is Seasonal
Stairs only and weather-dependent—check availability and your timeslot when booking.
Go Early or Late
Weekday openings and late afternoons are calmer; weekends and holidays draw more visitors.
Respect the Crypt
Photography without flash is typically fine; keep voices low in memorial areas.
Visitor Cheatsheet
Opening Hours
Standard daytime hours; dome access may follow a separate seasonal calendar.
Ticket Options
Admission €13+ | Panthéon + Cruise €31.90+ | Latin Quarter Walk €35+ | Museum Pass €90+
What to Bring
Light bag, comfy shoes; water in warm months. Large items may be restricted at security.
How to Get There
RER B to Luxembourg • Métro 10 Cardinal Lemoine • Métro 7 Place Monge/Censier–Daubenton.
Ready to Experience the Panthéon?
Secure timed entry, add a Latin Quarter walk or a Seine cruise, and enjoy a meaningful day on the Left Bank.
Book Panthéon Tickets from €13