The Parthenon is one of the most iconic structures of ancient Greece, located on the Acropolis of Athens. Built between 447 and 432 BCE during the Golden Age of Athens, it was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the goddess of wisdom and the city’s patron deity. Here’s a deeper look at its history, design, and significance.
History
The Parthenon was commissioned by Pericles, the leader of Athens, and designed by the architects Iktinos and Kallikrates, with sculptural work directed by the famous sculptor Phidias.
Constructed during a period when Athens was at the height of its power, the temple symbolizes the wealth, power, and artistic achievements of ancient Athens.
It replaced an older temple that was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BCE, symbolizing Athenian resilience and renewal.
Details about the design
Doric Order: The Parthenon is a prime example of the Doric order, known for its simple, sturdy columns and no base. However, it also features Ionic elements (like an inner frieze), showcasing a blend of Greek architectural styles.
Structure and Dimensions: The Parthenon is rectangular, measuring about 69.5 by 30.9 meters. It has 8 columns on each of its shorter sides and 17 columns on the longer sides.
Optical Illusions: To create an impression of visual perfection, the architects used optical refinements. The columns are slightly curved, and the platform (stylobate) is not entirely flat, subtly curving upward in the center to counteract the natural illusion of sagging that a perfectly flat surface would create.
Athena Parthenos Statue
Inside the Parthenon, there was a massive statue of Athena made of gold and ivory by Phidias, standing about 12 meters tall. This statue was a symbol of Athenian wealth and reverence for the goddess.
Later History
The Parthenon symbolized not only religious devotion but also Athenian cultural and political pride. Over centuries, it served various purposes, including as a Christian church and later as a mosque under Ottoman rule. It was damaged in 1687 during a Venetian attack when an explosion occurred because gunpowder stored inside the building ignited. Today, the Parthenon is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site and is undergoing restoration efforts to preserve its structure for future generations.
The Parthenon is one of the most iconic structures of ancient Greece, located on the Acropolis of Athens. Built between 447 and 432 BCE during the Golden Age of Athens, it was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the goddess of wisdom and the city’s patron deity. Here’s a deeper look at its history, design, and significance.
History
Details about the design
Athena Parthenos Statue
Inside the Parthenon, there was a massive statue of Athena made of gold and ivory by Phidias, standing about 12 meters tall. This statue was a symbol of Athenian wealth and reverence for the goddess.
Later History
The Parthenon symbolized not only religious devotion but also Athenian cultural and political pride. Over centuries, it served various purposes, including as a Christian church and later as a mosque under Ottoman rule. It was damaged in 1687 during a Venetian attack when an explosion occurred because gunpowder stored inside the building ignited. Today, the Parthenon is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site and is undergoing restoration efforts to preserve its structure for future generations.