the dichotomy between the sacred and the secular aspects of halloween reflects broader cultural tensions. some protestant sects, particularly in early modern england, opposed the celebration, viewing its connection to purgatory and saintly intercession as incompatible with reformed theology. the split between halloweens fun, macabre imagery and its christian observances underscores how complex and layered the holidays traditions have become over time. the pantheon, a monumental roman temple later converted into a christian church, ties into the history of halloween through its association with the christianization of pagan practices and the establishment of all saints day. understanding how the pantheon, originally a temple dedicated to "all gods" in rome, evolved into a site of christian veneration sheds light on the broader cultural and religious shifts that influenced halloweens development. the pantheon was originally constructed between 113125 ad under the reign of emperor hadrian (rebuilding an earlier structure commissioned by marcus agrippa). it was designed as a temple to honor all the gods, hence the name pantheon, from the greek word "pantheion," meaning "of, relating to, or common to all the gods." the structures grand circular dome with its central oculus is one of the most iconic examples of roman architecture, symbolizing the heavens and the divine realm.
United States