Parthenon athens columns

The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, is a Doric temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, built in the 5th century BCE on the Acropolis.

About this subject

The Parthenon is the most iconic monument of Ancient Greece and an enduring symbol of Western civilization. Built between 447 and 438 BCE during the leadership of Pericles, the temple was designed by architects Ictinus and Callicrates, with sculptures by Phidias. Located atop the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon was constructed to house a colossal statue of Athena Parthenos, made of gold and ivory.

The columns of the Parthenon are a perfect example of the Doric order. The temple has 46 outer columns: eight on each facade and seventeen on the sides. Each column stands approximately 10.4 meters tall and 1.9 meters in diameter at the base, made from Pentelic marble quarried from Mount Pentelicus. The architects introduced subtle optical refinements, such as a slight curvature in the horizontal lines and an entasis (swelling) in the columns, to correct optical illusions and create a visually perfect appearance.

Beyond its architectural genius, the Parthenon has endured centuries of transformations. It was converted into a Christian church in the 6th century, then into a mosque under Ottoman rule. In 1687, during the Venetian siege, the temple was severely damaged when a Venetian shell hit a powder magazine stored inside, exploding the roof and toppling many columns. Today, the Parthenon lies in ruins but remains one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the columns of the Parthenon curved?

The columns are not actually curved but have a slight swelling (entasis) to correct optical illusions, making them appear perfectly straight to the human eye. This optical refinement is a hallmark of classical Greek engineering.

How many columns does the Parthenon originally have?

The Parthenon originally had 46 outer columns: eight at each end and seventeen on each side. Currently, some are fallen or damaged due to explosions and earthquakes.

What caused damage to the columns of the Parthenon?

The greatest damage occurred in 1687 when a Venetian shell exploded a gunpowder magazine inside the temple, destroying the roof and toppling several columns. Centuries of pollution and looting have also contributed to its deterioration.