Secularized during the revolution, this Latin Quarter building has a porch of columns & triangular pediment modeled on an ancient building

On the December 22, 2025, episode of Jeopardy!, the Final Jeopardy category was French Landmarks. Contestants were presented with a historically rich clue rooted in France’s revolutionary past and its enduring architectural legacy. The clue read: “Secularized during the revolution, this Latin Quarter building has a porch of columns & triangular pediment modeled on an ancient building.” The correct response required familiarity not only with Parisian landmarks but also with classical architecture and the impact of the French Revolution.

What is the Panthéon?

The correct response to the clue is: What is the Panthéon? Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, the Panthéon is a monumental structure that reflects both religious and secular French history. Originally constructed as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, the building was transformed into a secular mausoleum during the French Revolution to honor France’s most distinguished citizens. This shift in function is key to understanding the “secularized during the revolution” part of the clue.

The building’s neoclassical design draws direct inspiration from the Roman Pantheon. Its grand portico, with Corinthian columns and a triangular pediment, mirrors classical Roman temple architecture. This architectural style was particularly fashionable during the Enlightenment, representing ideals of reason, permanence, and republicanism—values embraced by the revolutionaries who redefined the building’s purpose.

Historical Transformation During the French Revolution

The French Revolution had a profound impact on religious institutions, and the Panthéon became one of the most iconic examples of this shift. In 1791, the revolutionary government ordered the building’s conversion from a religious space into a civic monument. The church was deconsecrated and repurposed as a burial place for notable figures such as Voltaire and Rousseau, cementing its role as a symbol of national pride and intellectual achievement.

This transformation also involved altering the symbolism of the building. Religious iconography was removed or replaced with secular and republican imagery. The new inscriptions and decor highlighted Enlightenment values and the revolutionary ethos. Although the Panthéon has at times reverted to a religious function, it has remained predominantly secular since the 19th century.

Architectural Features and Classical Influence

The architectural design of the Panthéon is closely modeled on ancient Roman temples. The facade features a portico with Corinthian columns and a triangular pediment, which is an unmistakable nod to classical antiquity. Architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot sought to merge the lightness of Gothic structures with the grandeur of classical forms, and the result was a landmark that balances aesthetic elegance with monumental scale.

Inside, the vast dome rises nearly 270 feet, dominating the Parisian skyline and offering panoramic views of the city. The layout and engineering of the dome also reflect classical design principles, further reinforcing the influence of ancient architecture. The structure embodies the Enlightenment ideal of using reason and science to achieve aesthetic and functional excellence.

A Resting Place for France’s National Heroes

Today, the Panthéon serves as the final resting place for some of France’s most revered figures. In addition to Voltaire and Rousseau, its crypt houses the remains of Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, Marie Curie, and Alexandre Dumas. The selection of interred individuals reflects the nation’s recognition of contributions to literature, science, philosophy, and civic life.

The Panthéon is not just a tourist destination but a symbol of national memory and unity. Its role has expanded to include commemorative ceremonies and historical exhibitions, making it a living monument that continues to engage with France’s past and present.

Cultural Significance and Legacy

The Panthéon stands as a powerful representation of France’s complex history—a building that has moved from religious devotion to secular reverence. Its design captures a pivotal moment when France embraced republican ideals, and its continued use as a mausoleum for the greats of French society solidifies its cultural importance.

As reflected in the Jeopardy! clue, understanding the Panthéon requires knowledge of both its architectural elements and historical transformations. The reference to the Latin Quarter situates it within one of the oldest and most intellectual districts of Paris, adding another layer of depth to its identity. Its inclusion in the Final Jeopardy round highlights the enduring fascination and educational value of France’s most iconic landmarks.