The chosen architect for this monarchist project was Jacques-Germain Soufflot (1713-1780). Relatively young and an unknown he chose a Greek cross plan for the layout with a triple dome to sit on the top. His first design was submitted in 1755. Like the king he would never see the finished church. It’s remarkable to consider the length of time that was taken to build these structures. The project was completed in 1790, i.e., it took an incredible 26 years to finish.
The similarities to the Pantheon in Rome are for all to see on the main façade. Classical Corinthian columns sit underneath the triangular pediment above. In the Roman Pantheon the words relate to the builder Marcus Agrippa: in the Parisian Pantheon the words read “to great men, the grateful homeland”.
Stepping inside be prepared to be wowed as the art and architecture combine for a beautiful display. Domes, vaults, ceilings and have been perfectly aligned to allow the light to pour in. The inside is more vibrant than the solemn appearance of the older Rome edition. The best part of 1800 years separate the construction of the two buildings. The Greek cross design means there are 4 naves of equal size emanating from the central crossing.
Above the central crossing is the 3 layered dome. Comparisons here should shift from the Roman Pantheon and pass to another building in the Italian capital along with Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece in London. There are similarities between St Peter’s Basilica and St Paul’s Cathedral and these may be compared with the Parisian Pantheon.
Roman columns surround the bottom of the dome which then sits on top. They provide one of the most magical views across Parisian skyline. The Soufflot design allowed for each dome to fit one inside the other. Maybe Soufflot had been to Florence and seen how the dome on the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore was constructed.