Parthenon athens columns

The Parthenon, iconic temple on the Acropolis of Athens, is a symbol of ancient Greece and classical architecture with its Doric columns.

About this subject

The Parthenon was built between 447 and 438 BCE under the leadership of Pericles, as part of an ambitious reconstruction project of the Acropolis after the Persian Wars. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron of the city. Its architectural design, by architects Ictinus and Callicrates with supervision by sculptor Phidias, is considered the pinnacle of the Doric order. The Parthenon's columns are not perfectly straight; they feature a slight curvature called entasis, which corrects optical illusions and creates visual harmony. Originally, the temple housed a 12-meter-tall chryselephantine statue of Athena, crafted by Phidias. Over the centuries, the Parthenon underwent transformations: it was a Byzantine church, a Catholic cathedral, and an Ottoman mosque. In 1687, an explosion during the Venetian siege severely damaged its structure. Despite the ruins, it remains a global icon of democracy and Greek cultural heritage. The Doric columns, with their simple capital and vertical fluting, are among the most photographed and studied elements in architectural history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many columns does the Parthenon have?

The Parthenon has 46 Doric columns on the perimeter: 8 on the front and 17 on the sides (counting corners twice). The columns are about 10.4 meters tall.

Why are the Parthenon's columns slightly curved?

The columns have a subtle curvature called entasis, which corrects the optical illusion that would make them appear thinner in the middle. Additionally, the stylobate (temple floor) is slightly curved to avoid a sinking feeling.

Is the Parthenon still standing?

The Parthenon is in ruins, but much of its structure remains. It has suffered various damages throughout history, including the 1687 explosion. Today, it is one of Greece's major archaeological sites and undergoes continuous restoration.