This engineering marvel was built between 118 and 126 AD by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The oculus (“the eye of God”) sits about 140 ft. above the ground at the center of the dome of the Roman Pantheon. Until recently people would climb the building to get a glimpse from the oculus into the interior of the building. It must have been an incredible sight! When I was younger I probably would have done it. What an experience! But I understand why it has been banned.

For more on the history of this practice go here: Climbing the Eye of God by Matt Donovan | NYR Daily | The New York Review of Books