The Parthenon

Construction of the Parthenon began in 447 BC under the leadership of Pericles, a prominent and influential statesman who led Athens as it was reaching the zenith of its power. The temple was built upon the Acropolis, the city’s fortified hilltop, and was dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Famed sculptor Phidias oversaw the artistic direction, transforming marble into a resplendent edifice.

Following the victory against the Persians in 479 BC, Athens emerged as a powerful city-state, the construction of the Parthenon symbolized the city’s triumph and resilience. The creation of the monumental temple was fueled by a desire to commemorate Athens’ victory and showcase the city’s ascendancy in the Greek world. It was partly funded by the spoils of the Persian Wars and contributions from the Delian League.

The Parthenon is celebrated for its mathematical precision and innovative architectural techniques. It represents a peak in classical Greek architecture, combining aesthetic harmony with structural durability. The rectangular-shaped structure measured approximately 31 meters by 69.5 meters and its columns form a surrounding colonnade, enclosing the “cella”. This inner chamber is believed to have housed the statue of Athena, to whom the temple is dedicated.

One of the Parthenon’s key elements is its innovative structural design, with each column slightly swelling toward the center. This feature, known as “entasis”, creates the illusion of straight lines and enhances the temple’s grandeur. This is thanks to the meticulous attention of the architects and builders to geometry and proportion, which ensured stability and aesthetic beauty.

The Parthenon is predominantly constructed in the Doric order, characterized by sturdy columns with fluted shafts and simple, cushion-like capitals. Above these, the entablature possesses a plain architrave. Contrasting the Doric simplicity, Ionic elements are subtly present in the Parthenon, including a frieze that uniquely combines features from both architectural orders.

The Parthenon's decorative sculptures are often recognized as a high point in classical Greek art . The metopes, the square panels above the columns, depict mythological battles such as the Gigantomachy and Centauromachy, demonstrating a frozen narrative in stone.

The pediments, the triangular spaces at each end of the temple, depict the birth of Athena and the contest between Athena and Poseidon. These themes not only highlight mythological tales but also emphasize the cultural and religious importance of Athena in Athenian life.

Under the guidance of master sculptor Phidias, the artistic vision of the Parthenon came to life. The long-lost gold and ivory-plated statue of Athena Parthenos, that once graced the temple’s inner chamber, was one of his most celebrated and intricate works. Pieces attributed to his workshop, including the so-called Elgin Marbles, now resonate with history at institutions like the Acropolis Museum.

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Experience the ancient wonders of the Acropolis without the wait. Skip-the-line tickets give you the freedom to see one of the world's most famous ancient monuments at your own pace. Receive the ticket instantly via e-mail on your mobile phone and show it at the entrance.

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Enjoy the Acropolis with the company of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Join this 1.5 hour tour to explore the rich history and secrets of the Acropolis and its ruins, including the Parthenon, the Dionysus Theater and Sanctuary, and many more.

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