The Parthenon is an iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, located on the Acropolis of Athens, Greece. Here are some key details:
- Construction: The Parthenon was built between 447 and 438 BC, during the height of the Athenian Empire under the leadership of Pericles. Its construction was part of a broader effort to rebuild Athens after the Greco-Persian Wars.
- Architects: The temple was designed by the architects Iktinos and Callicrates, with Phidias supervising the sculptural decoration.
- Architectural Style: It represents the pinnacle of the Doric Order, although it also incorporates elements of the Ionic Order in its frieze.
- Dimensions: The Parthenon measures approximately 30.88 meters in width, 69.5 meters in length, and originally stood 13.72 meters tall at the top of its roof.
- Purpose: Primarily a temple for worship, it also served as a treasury for the Delian League. It housed the famous Chryselephantine Statue of Athena, a 12-meter tall statue crafted by Phidias.
- Decoration: The Parthenon is renowned for its exquisite sculptures, including the Parthenon Frieze, the Metopes, and the Pediments, which depict scenes from Greek mythology.
- Historical Changes:
- It was converted into a Christian church in the 6th century AD, dedicated to Parthenos Maria (Virgin Mary).
- In the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman rule.
- During the Morean War, in 1687, the Parthenon was severely damaged when the Venetians bombarded Athens and an explosion destroyed a significant part of the structure.
- Modern Era: Restoration efforts have been ongoing since the 19th century, with significant work done to preserve and restore the Parthenon due to its cultural and historical significance. The Acropolis Museum now houses many of its sculptures.
- Controversy: The Elgin Marbles, a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures from the Parthenon, were removed by Lord Elgin and are now housed in the British Museum, sparking debate over their rightful location.
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