The Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC. It stands as a symbol of ancient Greece, Athenian democracy, and Western civilization.
Constructed between 447-432 BCE, the Parthenon represents the culmination of the Doric order and is considered the finest example of Greek architecture.
Despite damage over centuries, including the 1687 explosion that severely damaged much of the structure, the Parthenon remains a powerful symbol of Greece's glorious past and a testament to human creativity.
Construction Period
World Heritage Site
Construction begins under the direction of the sculptor Phidias and architects Ictinus and Callicrates, commissioned by Pericles.
Completion of the Parthenon, including Phidias' massive chryselephantine statue of Athena Parthenos.
Conversion into a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Major damage occurs when Venetian bombardment caused gunpowder stored inside to explode.
Many sculptures are removed by Lord Elgin and transferred to the British Museum.
Ongoing restoration project to preserve and restore the ancient structure using modern techniques.
The Parthenon dominates the Athenian skyline from its position on the Acropolis.
The beautifully carved friezes depict mythological scenes and civic ceremonies.
Special lighting highlights the architectural details of the temple at night.
Digital reconstruction shows how brightly painted the temple originally appeared.
Skilled workers use original techniques combined with modern technology in the ongoing restoration.
Many original sculptures are preserved in the modern museum just below the Acropolis.
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (April - October)
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (November - March)
Adults: €20
Students/Seniors: €10
Children (under 18): Free
Combined ticket includes access to other archaeological sites.
The site has wheelchair access via a special entrance on the north slope. An elevator is available at the New Acropolis Museum.
The Acropolis is located in central Athens. The main entrance is on the west side, near the metro station "Acropoli" (Red Line).
