Place du Panthéon and the Façade

Stand in Place du Panthéon and face the building head-on, and its grandeur recalls an ancient Greek temple. But it isn't just big: the decoration is remarkably delicate.

First, look at the inscription across the front: "AUX GRANDS HOMMES LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE," or "To the great men, the grateful homeland." It was carved when the former church of Sainte-Geneviève became a national mausoleum for France's heroes. Since the nation had chosen to lay the coffins of those who shaped its history here, the words express gratitude to their souls.

The triangular sculpture just above is called a pediment, one of the hallmarks of ancient Greek temple architecture and typically set above an entrance. The Panthéon's pediment is the work of the celebrated French sculptor David d'Angers (Pierre-Jean David, 1788-1856), completed in 1837. It symbolizes how the glory of the French Republic came about thanks to its many great figures.

Look closely and you'll see a goddess at the center, handing out laurel wreaths with both hands. She represents the French Republic, and the wreaths stand for honor. On either side are those receiving the wreaths, each of whom contributed to France's progress in a particular field. On the left are philosophers, scientists, and artists in noble dress; on the right, soldiers in military uniform. Together they show the goddess of the Republic honoring and protecting the nation's great scholars, artists, and soldiers.

Now let's head inside. If you have a reservation, join the line under the "direct access" sign; if you're buying tickets on the spot, join the "ticket office" line.