Dedicated to goddess of wisdom and war, the Parthenon was created in ancient Greece as a thank you to Athena. Officially built between 447 and 432 B.C., the Parthenon withstood earthquakes, fire, wars, explosions and looting yet remains, although battered, a powerful symbol of ancient Greece and Athenian culture. To this day, the Parthenon is one of the most recognized buildings in the world and an enduring symbol of ancient Greece.
What is it?
The Parthenon was the center of religious life in the powerful Greek city-state of Athens. The temple was dedicated to the goddess of war and wisdom, Athena. Construction of the Parthenon began in 447 B.C. and was dedicated in 438 B.C. It's believed that roughly 13,400 stones were used to build the temple, at a total cost of around 47 silver talents, which equates to roughly $7 million U.S. dollars today. The structure has a limestone foundation, which some find interesting considering its religious purpose. The Parthenon is a prime example of true Greek architecture because it contains no straight lines and no right angles. The art in the structure depicts a mythical battle between Amazon warriors and the ancient Greeks and mythical battles between gods and giants.
How to visit
After you purchase tickets, you will have to walk uphill until you reach the top. There is an elevator available for handicapped persons. There are lines you must wait in to access the Parthenon which are known to be very long. In order to bypass them, you can purchase a 'combination ticket' which gives you access to other Greek archeological sites and the ability to move through waiting lines faster. The best time to visit the Parthenon is right at opening and before closing, because there will be less people.
Thing to keep in mind
Don't wear heeled shoes, as they are not allowed due to the attempt to preserve the monument.
Dress according to the weather as it can get very warm in the summer and there will be large crowds
While climbing to the top of the hill, be careful around rocks as moisture can cause the rocks to become slippery
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