Sights to Visit at the Acropolis
Most visitors associate the Acropolis with the Parthenon, but there is, in reality, a lot more to see at the Acropolis.
The Parthenon
The centerpiece of the Acropolis and one of the most visited sights in the world, the Parthenon is a temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena. Its original form was built in 480 BCE, but was destroyed when the Persians attacked. The most recent form - the classical Parthenon we know- was built in 440 BCE to be the focus of the Acropolis complex. Its foundations are made of limestone, and the columns are made from Pentelic marble. The architects were Iktinos and Kallikrates, and the main function of the temple was to shelter the statue of Athena, which was made out of gold and ivory. The Parthenon attracted a total of three million visitors in 2022 alone.
The Theatre of Dionysus
This amphitheater is well-preserved and has stone seats in the front row with the names of the nobles who reserved them etched into each place. In ancient Greece, theaters were always dedicated to Dionysus, who is associated with wine and having a good time.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus
As you go up the path to the top of the Acropolis, you will find the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This theater was built in 160 AD by a wealthy Athenian and holds 5000 seats. It is used for music, opera, and concerts during Athens festivals that go throughout the summer. Even if you don’t have a chance to visit the Acropolis, it is possible to view the stone arch of the Odeon from a distance near the ticket office.
The Temple of Athena Nike
As you walk up the Acropolis Hill and get close to the Propylaea gateway, you will find the small temple of Athena Nike. The Greek goddess Athena was known as the namesake of the city of Athens, and according to myth, she planted an olive tree on the top of the Acropolis to mark it. This olive tree is still standing on the Acropolis Hill. You are not able to get up close to the Temple of Athena, but it is a marvel to gaze at from the steps below. The temple has been renovated, and the original frieze is on display nearby at the Acropolis Museum.
The Erechtheion and Caryatids
Once you have viewed the Parthenon, the Erechtheion is the other main monument of the Acropolis, found on the northern side of the complex. The temple is known for its Caryatids, a row of pillars depicting women wearing tunics. These Caryatids support the roof. Again, these are copies, and the originals are found in the Acropolis Museum.
History & Culture
