Parthenon athens columns

The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena atop the Acropolis of Athens, is renowned for its majestic Doric columns that symbolize the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture.

About this subject

The Parthenon is one of the most iconic structures of ancient Greece, located on the Acropolis of Athens. Built between 447 and 432 BCE under the leadership of Pericles, it was designed by architects Ictinus and Callicrates, with sculptures by Phidias. The temple was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the virgin goddess of wisdom and warfare, and housed a colossal gold and ivory statue of the goddess.

The Parthenon is a Doric peripteral temple with 46 external columns: 8 on the front and back facades, and 17 on each side. The columns stand approximately 10.4 meters tall and feature slight entasis (curvature) to correct optical illusions. The inner frieze, in Ionic order, depicted the Panathenaic procession, a festival honoring Athena. The use of precise proportions (such as the 9:4 ratio) and optical refinements (including inward column inclination) makes it a model of visual harmony.

Over the centuries, the Parthenon underwent transformations: it became a Christian church in the 6th century, then an Ottoman mosque in the 15th, and in 1687 it was partially destroyed by a gunpowder explosion during the Venetian siege. Despite the damage, it still impresses with its grandeur and lasting influence on Western architecture. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and subject of ongoing debates about the repatriation of the Elgin Marbles, removed in the 19th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many columns does the Parthenon have?

The Parthenon has 46 external columns: 8 on the front and back, and 17 on each side.

What architectural order are the Parthenon's columns?

The external columns are Doric order, but the inner frieze is Ionic, combining styles.

Why is the Parthenon considered an architectural marvel?

Due to its optical refinements, harmonious mathematical proportions, and lasting influence on classical and neoclassical architecture.