After standing for nearly 2,000 years in Rome, researchers have figured out why the Pantheon has managed to survive mother nature and time.
Not only is ancient architecture a marvel to look out, it's also astounding how it's managed to stay standing for so long.
The ancient Roman Pantheon, in Italy, has lasted for nearly 2,000 years. It has survived earthquakes, war, weather and tourists.
For years, researchers have attempted to figure out the Pantheon's secret to longevity, and now it appears they have.
The concrete structure was built in Rome during the 2nd century AD, and features a 142-foot-high dome.
According to an international study led by researchers from the University of Berkeley California, a combination of limestone and volcanic sand were used to make the mortar.
They made their own version of the cement based on an ancient Roman recipe, and hardened it for 180 days before it was x-rayed.
They saw that the mixture of these ingredients led to the formation of durable crystal-like minerals that helped prevent small cracks from occurring.
The Roman mortar also produced much less of a carbon footprint than its modern counterpart. Currently, the most widely-used cement annually produces 7 percent of the total carbon emitted into the atmosphere.
The researchers have suggested that the ancient technique be utilized in making cement, to build both stronger and more sustainable structures.
