Athens
| The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky hill above the city of Athens, featuring several iconic structures, most notably the Parthenon. It was primarily built during the 5th century BCE under Pericles and served as a religious and ceremonial center dedicated to the goddess Athena. The Acropolis represents the height of classical Greek architecture and art, symbolizing the cultural and political achievements of ancient Athens. It remains one of the most important and visited archaeological sites in the world. |
| The Parthenon, located on the Acropolis of Athens, was completed in 438 BCE and dedicated to the goddess Athena, symbolizing the height of ancient Greek architecture. Designed by architects Iktinus and Callicrates, it features the Doric style and once housed a massive statue of Athena by Phidias. Originally serving as a temple, the Parthenon has also been used as a church and a mosque throughout history. It remains a symbol of classical Greek ideals and one of the most important cultural monuments in the world. |
L-R: Agrippa Monument, Propylaia, and Temple of Athena Nike
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Left: The Pedestal of Agrippa is a large stone base located on the Acropolis of Athens, built in 178 BCE to commemorate the victories of Eumenes II of Pergamon in chariot races. In Roman times, it was repurposed to hold a statue of the Roman general Marcus Agrippa, hence its current name.
Center: The Propylaia is the monumental gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, constructed between 437 and 432 BCE under the architect Mnesicles. It was designed in a Doric style with a grand central hall flanked by two wings, serving as the entrance to the sacred site. Right: The Temple of Athena Nike on the Acropolis of Athens was built around 427-424 BCE to honor Athena as the goddess of victory. Designed by architect Kallikrates, the small Ionic temple is perched on a bastion and features a frieze that depicts historical and mythological battles. |
| The Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple on the Acropolis of Athens, built between 421 and 406 BCE. Dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon, it features an unusual asymmetrical design, reflecting the complex terrain and mythology of the site. The structure has a complex history, having served as a temple, church, palace, and the residence of a Turkish commander's harem. |
Erechtheion, view from southeast
| The Erechtheion is renowned for its unique and complex design, featuring multiple sanctuaries and the famous "Porch of the Caryatids" with six maiden-shaped columns. These sculpted maidens (caryatids), each about 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) tall, wear flowing robes and support the roof structure on their heads. The caryatids are not identical, with subtle differences in their stance, drapery, and hairstyles. |
| The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient stone theater located on the southwest slope of the Acropolis of Athens, built in AD 161 by Herodes Atticus in memory of his wife. It originally had a wooden roof and was used for musical performances and festivals. The Odeon could seat up to 5,000 spectators, and, after its renovation in the 1950s, the structure is still used for cultural events and performances today. |
Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens
| The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, also known as the Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation, is the cathedral church of the Archbishopric of Athens and all Greece. Construction began on Christmas Day 1842 with the laying of the cornerstone by King Otto and Queen Amalia, and it was completed in 1862. The cathedral is a major landmark of Athens and the site of important ceremonies, having hosted royal weddings, funerals of important political and social figures, and other significant national events. It's built in a mix of architectural styles including Greek Byzantine and Neoclassical elements. |
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