The Parthenon is arguably one the best tourist attractions in Greece. Perched high upon the Acropolis and able to be viewed from most vantage points in the city, this Ancient Greek temple still manages to inspire and astonish people who visit it despite being nearly over 2,500 years old.
Centrally located in the Plaka district, the Parthenon and Acropolis are the ancient heart of the city of Athens. Commissioned by Pericles, the Parthenon was built between 447 BC and 438 BC at the height of Classical Greek architecture. Dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, Athena Parthenos, the temple has had varied uses throughout the ages, including a treasury, a church and a mosque.
flickr/Martin Smith
The Parthenon perched on top of the Acropolis
From a practical point of view, managing to beat the crowds queuing to see the Parthenon is a test for the determined, though getting there is relatively easy. The closest metro stop is ‘Akropoli’ and from there it’s just a short uphill walk to the Acropolis. However, if you’re visiting in summer you’ll find queues can be lengthy, so get there as early as possible or later in the day to avoid a long wait.
The total length of your visit will depend on you but the recommended length is two to three hours. You can do a self-guided tour, book a tour or join one of the casual guided tours available at the entrance gate. To get the most out of your Greek history experience, a tour of some kind is recommended but be aware of guides who charge exorbitant prices.
Major renovation work to the Parthenon is ongoing, so expect to see scaffolding propping up the elegant Doric columns. Sadly this beautiful structure was partly destroyed in the 17th century by warring Venetians who fired and ignited gunpowder stored in the Parthenon by Ottoman Turks. Consequently the roof and inner structures were reduced to rubble.
flickr/Arrano
The Parthenon
flickr/Northernstar28**
The Parthenon at night
What remains is still unequivocally reminiscent of ancient Greece and attracts tourists by their millions each year. The first glimpse is all the more anticipatory from the climb up the giant marble steps and entering through the Propylaea, an ancient gateway designed to showcase the Parthenon from its best angle. In the light of the afternoon sun the marble gives off a golden glow and the temple seems still to possess an ancient fire.
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