The Panthéon, Paris
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Pantheon - by Kreshen on Unsplash
Description
The Panthéon is a mausoleum where celebrated French figures since the 18th century are entombed. It is located atop the Sainte-Geneviève hill in the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement) of Paris. It was commissioned in the late 18th century by King Louis XV to replace the Abbaye of Sainte-Geneviève, hence its church like design - and changed function back and forth during the 19th century until settling as a secular monument. Above its entrance, its function is stated through an inscription reading “Aux Grands Hommes, La Patrie Reconnaissante,” or “To the great men, the grateful homeland.” The heavy Neoclassical style from the outside (inspired by Rome's own Panthéon) gives way to an airy interior with many artworks, one of Foucault's pendulums and access to the crypt. Historical figures such as Victor Hugo, Voltaire or Pierre and Marie Curie are entombed there. There is also a staircase access to the top of the building - this cost EUR3 (not reviewed here)
Access & Transport
Most visitors will probably walk there from the Saint Michel area or through Rue Mouffetard and Place de la Contrescarpe. By public transport the bus lines 75 and 89 stop at the monument and the Cardinal Lemoine métro station (10) and Luxembourg train station (RER B) are about 5mins walk away. Entrance to the building is up the steps and the 38-step staircase to the crypt has no handrail so the monument is not accessible to wheelchair users.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend combining this activity with a discovery of the Latin Quarter neighbourhood, a visit to the Jardin des Plantes (checking out the Arènes de Lutèce on the way) or to the Luxembourg Garden.
Environmental & Social
No data available - we deem this activity to be neutral from an environmental standpoint (minor electrical requirements) and slightly positive from a social perspective as it helps retain some of the city and country cultural heritages
Conclusion
The Panthéon is, in our opinion, a stunning monument. The Neoclassical design and Roman-like architecture are very stately and perfectly fits the purpose of the building. We think the interior and the crypt are worth the fees (most people spend the same amount for a cocktail or a couple of beers without thinking twice) but even if budget is a limiting factor, the view from the outside is worth the trek up the hill
Key positive
A monument that is both imposing and refined
A great part of town to wander in
Opportunity to learn more about some key French historical figures
Key negative
Visitors unfamiliar with French history may not fully appreciate the history of the place
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but children under 12 may find it of little interest The monument is only partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility (stairs to go down to the crypt and up to the top)
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:30
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:30
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:30
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:30
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:30
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:30
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:30
Start of Season 2:Oct, 15
MONDAY10:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:00