Parthenon athens columns

Doric columns of the Parthenon, temple dedicated to Athena atop the Acropolis of Athens, ultimate symbol of Ancient Greece and democracy.

About this subject

The Parthenon, built between 447 and 438 BCE under Pericles' leadership, is the most celebrated example of classical Greek architecture. Its Doric columns, originally 46 in total (8 on the façade and 17 on each side), are made of Pentelic marble and feature a subtle curvature to correct optical illusions. The temple once housed a massive gold-and-ivory statue of Athena Parthenos by Phidias. Over centuries, the Parthenon served as a church, mosque, and gunpowder magazine, suffering severe damage in 1687 during a Venetian siege. Despite the destruction, its columns remain icons of Western cultural heritage. Today, the Parthenon is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors annually. The Doric columns, with their fluting and simple capitals, represent the Greek pursuit of harmony and mathematical proportion in architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the columns of the Parthenon?

They are Doric marble columns that support the temple, characterized by fluting and simple capitals.

How many columns did the Parthenon originally have?

It had 46 columns: 8 on the façade and 17 on each side.

Why are the Parthenon columns curved?

They have a slight curvature (entasis) to correct optical illusions and appear straight.