Panthéon
A monumental colonnade atop the Sainte-Geneviève hill.
The story of the place
In 1744, gravely ill at Metz, Louis XV vowed to rebuild the church of the Sainte-Geneviève abbey if he recovered. He did, handed the project to Jacques-Germain Soufflot and laid the first stone in 1764, on the Sainte-Geneviève hill. Finished in 1790, the building was at once repurposed by the Revolution: from 1791 it became a mausoleum for the nation's great figures, bearing the inscription "Aux grands hommes la patrie reconnaissante". Its purpose wavered all through the 19th century and was settled in 1885, at Victor Hugo's funeral. Voltaire, Rousseau, Zola and Marie Curie rest here.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: RER B Luxembourg. The spot is in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Neighbourhood cafe open every day, terrace on rue Soufflot with the Pantheon straight ahead, two minutes from the shoot.
Natural-wine bistro three minutes from the Pantheon, seasonal small plates, open Monday to Friday only.
Brasserie opened in 1894, mirrors, dark woodwork and moleskine banquettes, served seven days a week until late, five minutes' walk.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Panthéon?
Nearest metro station: RER B Luxembourg. The spot is in the 5th arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Panthéon?
Decent golden hour (3/5): the golden light works, but surrounding buildings can cut it short depending on the season. From Rue Soufflot, a vista with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Panthéon?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Jardin du Luxembourg, Rue Mouffetard, Notre-Dame de Paris, Saint-Germain-des-Prés.