Parthenon athens columns

The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena on the Acropolis of Athens, is the ultimate symbol of ancient Greece and democracy.

About this subject

The Parthenon is an ancient Greek temple on the Acropolis of Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena, the city's patron. Built between 447 and 432 BC under Pericles' leadership, it was designed by architects Ictinus and Callicrates, with sculptures by Phidias. The structure is a classic example of the Doric order, with 46 external columns and an interior that once housed a massive gold and ivory statue of Athena Parthenos.

Over the centuries, the Parthenon underwent transformations: it was converted into a Christian church in the 5th century AD, then an Ottoman mosque in the 15th century. In 1687, during the Venetian siege, an explosion caused by a Turkish gunpowder store destroyed much of the roof and sculptures. In the 19th century, Lord Elgin removed many marbles, now displayed in the British Museum, sparking repatriation debates.

The Parthenon is an icon of classical architecture, famous for its optical corrections: columns are slightly inclined and the stylobate has a subtle curvature to avoid illusion of deformation. Since 1975, a meticulous restoration program aims to preserve the structure using original materials and ancient techniques. The monument is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Parthenon built?

The Parthenon was erected to honor the goddess Athena, protector of Athens, and to celebrate the Greek victory over the Persians. It served as a treasury and place of worship, symbolizing the power and wealth of the city-state.

What happened to the original Parthenon sculptures?

Many sculptures were removed by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century and are now in the British Museum in London. Greece demands their repatriation, but the UK has not yet returned them.

Is the Parthenon still being restored?

Yes, since 1975 an ongoing restoration program uses ancient techniques and original materials to repair damage from centuries of war, pollution, and vandalism.