Parthenon, Attica Travel Guide

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Explore the Parthenon, an enduring symbol of ancient Greece and Athenian democracy, perched atop the Acropolis offering breathtaking views of Athens.

The Parthenon, a majestic marble temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, stands proudly atop the Acropolis in Athens. Constructed between 447 and 432 B.C., it represents the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture and a testament to the power and culture of ancient Athens. Its iconic columns and enduring presence make it one of the world's most recognizable buildings.

A brief summary to Parthenon

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Parthenon.

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Wear comfortable shoes as the Acropolis involves a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain.
Bring water and sun protection, as there is limited shade on the Acropolis.
Consider visiting the Acropolis Museum to see the sculptures and artifacts from the Parthenon in a climate-controlled environment.

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Explore Parthenon on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Parthenon, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Syntagma Square, take the Metro Line 2 (Red Line) to Acropoli station. The Parthenon is approximately a 10-minute walk from the station. Single metro fare is €1.40. Alternatively, take bus 230 and get off at the Akropoli bus stop, which is a 4-minute walk to the entrance.
Walking

From the Acropolis Museum, walk north along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. This pedestrian street leads directly to the Acropolis entrance. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Ask the driver to take you to the Acropolis public car park on Rovertou Galli Street, which is a short walk from the entrance. A typical taxi fare from Syntagma Square to the Acropolis costs approximately €5-€7. Parking near the Acropolis ranges from €8-€12 per hour.

Discover more about Parthenon

The Parthenon, an iconic symbol of ancient Greece and Athenian democracy, dominates the Acropolis of Athens. This resplendent marble temple, dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the city's patron goddess, was constructed between 447 and 432 B.C. during the height of the Athenian Empire. The celebrated Greek statesman Pericles initiated the building project, aiming to replace an earlier temple and create a structure that would symbolize Athens' strength and wealth.The Parthenon was designed by architects Ictinos and Callicrates, under the supervision of the sculptor Phidias, who also oversaw the temple's sculptural decoration. The temple is a masterpiece of Doric architecture, featuring a double peripteral design with eight columns on each of the short sides and seventeen columns on the long sides. The building incorporates subtle architectural refinements, such as slightly curved horizontal lines and columns that swell in the middle, creating an illusion of perfect straightness and visual harmony.Throughout its long history, the Parthenon has served various purposes. It functioned as a treasury, a Byzantine church, a Roman Catholic cathedral, and a mosque. In 1687, during the Morean War, a Venetian bomb struck the Parthenon, which the Ottomans were using as a munitions dump, causing a massive explosion that severely damaged the structure. In the early 19th century, Lord Elgin controversially removed many of the surviving sculptures, now known as the Elgin Marbles, which are currently housed in the British Museum.Today, the Parthenon stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of ancient Greek civilization. Despite centuries of war, earthquakes, and looting, its remains continue to inspire awe and attract visitors from around the world. Restoration projects have been ongoing since 1975 to preserve the remaining artifacts and ensure the structural integrity of this iconic monument. Visitors can explore the Acropolis and marvel at the Parthenon's impressive architecture and historical significance.