Sitting atop the Acropolis the world famous Parthenon–built between 447-438 BC as homage to the Patron Saint of the city, Athena – is almost guarding the city in her splendour and glory.

The double Doric temple pavilion and its impressive columns are made from limestone and Pentelic marble and the various friezes around the temple depict various Gods and scenes from Greek mythology.

History

During the Ottoman rule the Parthenon became a mosque whilst in 1687 it was blown up by a Venetian bomb and much of it collapsed. It suffered further severe damage in the early 19th century resulting in the controversial looting of its sculptural decoration by Lord Elgin, resulting in much of the sculpture now housed in the British Museum.

The temple has undergone construction works for many years with the aim to retain its former glory.

A morning spent at the Acropolis and Parthenon is a must for any visitor to Athens, to revel in its history and for the far reaching views down as far as Piraeus port.

Practical Info

Transport Nearest Metro Station is Monastiraki on the blue line, or the Acropolis Metro Station on the red line.

The entrance is up from the rock of Areopagos. Follow Dioysiou Aeropagitou, the large pedestrian street that starts near Hadrian's Arch and goes around the south side of the Acropolis until you come to the marble paths that lead up the hill.

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