The Acropolis of Athens is considered the symbol of ancient Greek civilization and one of the most important ancient monuments in Europe. Both the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the imposing temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, are visible from almost every point of Athens.
History of the Acropolis
The Acropolis in Athens served as a fortress and military base during the Neolithic period, due to its location offering excellent views of the land and sea. During Mycenaean times, it evolved into a religious center dedicated to the worship of the goddess Athena. According to legend, the site was declared a province for the gods by an oracle, ceasing human habitation.
The Acropolis underwent significant transformations over the centuries. The three most important temples—the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Nike—were built during the classical period (450-330 BC) on the ruins of older temples, each dedicated to different aspects of Athena. However, the Persians destroyed the Acropolis during the Battle of Salamis in 480 BC.
Pericles, the founder of the Athenian republic, rebuilt the Acropolis, transforming it into the ultimate achievement in classical Greek architecture and sculpture. This era saw the construction of the iconic structures that stand to this day. Throughout its history, the Acropolis has witnessed various cultural and political changes. The Parthenon was converted into a church dedicated to St. Sophia by the Byzantine Christians, turned into a fortress and residence by the Franks in 1205, and later became a mosque during the Ottoman occupation in the 15th century. When Greece gained independence from the Turkish occupation, preserving the monuments became a major priority and remains so today.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon symbolizes ancient Greek civilization, dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Built between 447 and 432 BC during Pericles’ golden age, it was designed by architect Ictinus and supervised by sculptor Phidias. The Parthenon, made of Pentelic marble, features 8 Doric columns on the narrow sides and 17 on the long sides. Notable for its architectural precision, the columns create an optical illusion of straight foundations. Inside was a pool and a 40-foot-tall gold and ivory statue of Athena. The Parthenon’s decorations include Doric metopes and an Ionic frieze depicting mythological battles and the Panathenaic festival. Despite numerous transformations, its final destruction in the 19th century saw Lord Elgin taking its decorations to the British Museum.
The Erechtheion
Located in the holiest part of the Acropolis, the Erechtheion was dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. Built between 421 and 406 BC, this Ionic temple consists of three main parts and is known for its Caryatids, six female figures serving as columns. It was constructed on the north side of the Parthenon and is a fine example of Ionic architecture.
The Temple of Athena Nike
Built between 427-424 BC by architect Kallikrates, this small Ionic temple is perched on a platform at the southwestern edge of the Acropolis. It features a frieze depicting mythological and battle scenes. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt twice, housing a statue of Athena holding a pomegranate and a helmet.
The Propylaea
The monumental gateway to the Acropolis, the Propylaea, designed by Mnisiklis, consists of a central hall and two side wings. Built between 437-432 BC, it served as the ceremonial entrance to the Acropolis, with painted panels in the north wing used as a gallery.
The Panathenaion Street
This route was followed during the Panathenaic festival, the most important event in ancient Athens dedicated to Athena. The procession included sacrifices, musicians, and girls holding a sacred veil, ending at the Erechtheion.
The Statue of Athena Promachos
Near the Propylaea stood the giant statue of Athena Promachos, symbolizing Athenian victory against the Persians. Created by Phidias, it was later taken to Constantinople and destroyed in 1204.
The Southwestern Slope of the Acropolis
This area housed public buildings crucial for ancient Athens’ artistic, intellectual, and religious activities. Important monuments here include:
The Theatre of Dionysus
Built in the 5th century, this stone and marble amphitheater seated 17,000 people. It hosted the annual Great Dionysia festival, featuring plays by Aristophanes, Aeschylus, Euripides, and Sophocles.
The Temple of Thrasyllus
Erected in 320-319 BC, the temple stood on the catacomb behind the Theatre of Dionysus. Its remnants include two Ionic columns above the Panagia Chrysospiliotissa chapel.
The Stoa of Eumenes
Built by Eumenes II, this long colonnade served as a shelter for theatre audiences.
The Asclepieion
Dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, this site includes the temple of Asclepius, a Doric stoa, an Ionic stoa, and an altar.
The Theatre of Herod Atticus
Built by Herod Atticus in 160 AD in memory of his wife, this theatre could accommodate over 5,000 spectators. It hosts the Athens Summer Festival, attracting performers worldwide.
Conclusion
The Acropolis of Athens is a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Greek civilization. The site contains several of the most important ancient Greek structures, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and Temple of Athena Nike. These structures are celebrated for their exquisite beauty and intricate design, showcasing ancient Greece’s artistic and architectural achievements. Today, the Acropolis is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Greek culture and heritage.