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Acropolis Parthenon: History, Construction & Materials
Welcome to your complete guide to the Parthenon on the Acropolis of Athens. Here you’ll find what the Parthenon is, why it matters, its key dates, how it was built, and what to look for in its architecture. We’ll also cover who built it, how it changed through the centuries, what it’s like today, and practical tips for visiting + plus a clear answer to “Acropolis vs. Parthenon”.
Use this page to understand the story behind Greece’s most famous temple.
What Is the Parthenon?
The Parthenon is the most famous monument on the Acropolis of Athens and one of the greatest masterpieces of classical architecture. Built in the 5th century BC, it was dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The temple symbolized the city’s power, wealth, and devotion during its Golden Age.
Unlike an ordinary temple, the Parthenon also served as a treasury and later transformed through history into a church, mosque, and even a gunpowder magazine. Today, it stands as a universal symbol of democracy, culture, and Western civilization.
Parthenon at a Glance (Quick Facts)
TimeLine
Parthenon Timeline: Key Dates
History of the Parthenon
From Temple to Today
The Parthenon was built in the mid-5th century BC as the crowning achievement of Athens’ Golden Age under Pericles. Dedicated to Athena, it not only honored the goddess but also displayed the city’s wealth and cultural dominance. Inside stood Phidias’ colossal gold and ivory statue of Athena, while the temple also functioned as the treasury of the Delian League.
Over time, the Parthenon’s role shifted dramatically. It was converted into a Christian church in the Byzantine period, later into a mosque under Ottoman rule, and suffered severe damage in 1687 when a Venetian bombardment ignited stored gunpowder. In the early 19th century, many sculptures were removed and taken abroad.
Today, the Parthenon remains a global symbol of classical civilization. Ongoing restoration works aim to protect this masterpiece, ensuring future generations can admire its enduring beauty and historical significance.
Construction of the Parthenon
The Parthenon was built between 447 and 432 BC under the leadership of Pericles, with architects Ictinus and Callicrates and the sculptor Phidias overseeing the artistic program. Constructed entirely of Pentelic marble, it combined precision engineering with innovative techniques. Subtle optical refinements—such as slightly curved columns and a raised base—correct visual distortions and create perfect harmony.
The temple originally housed Phidias’ monumental statue of Athena, while its sculpted friezes and metopes illustrated key scenes from Greek mythology, celebrating both divine power and Athenian pride.
Importance of the Parthenon
The Parthenon is more than just an ancient temple—it is the ultimate symbol of Athens’ Golden Age and the enduring values of democracy, culture, and art. Built to honor Athena, it reflected the city’s power and devotion, while its design influenced countless buildings around the world.
Today, the Parthenon represents the achievements of classical Greece and serves as a universal icon of Western civilization. Its enduring presence reminds visitors of the blend of history, mythology, and architectural genius that shaped not only Athens but also world heritage.
Architectural Highlights: Design, Optical Refinements & Sculpture
Metopes – Ninety-two carved panels decorated the outer colonnade, showing mythological battles such as the Centauromachy (Centaurs vs. Lapiths), Gigantomachy (Gods vs. Giants), and the Trojan War.
Parthenon Frieze – A continuous Ionic frieze ran around the inner chamber, depicting the Panathenaic procession, a festival honoring Athena and uniting gods with the people of Athens.
Pediments – The east pediment illustrated the birth of Athena from the head of Zeus, while the west pediment depicted her contest with Poseidon for the patronage of Athens.
Athena Parthenos – Inside stood Phidias’ colossal chryselephantine (gold and ivory) statue of Athena, nearly 12 meters tall, symbolizing the city’s devotion and power.Who Built the Parthenon?
The Parthenon was commissioned by Pericles during Athens’ Golden Age. The architects Ictinus and Callicrates designed the structure, while the renowned sculptor Phidias directed its artistic decoration, including the monumental statue of Athena. Together, they created a masterpiece that showcased the wealth, power, and cultural ambition of 5th-century BC Athens.
Acropolis vs. Parthenon
What’s the Difference?
The Acropolis refers to the entire ancient citadel that rises above Athens, home to several temples and monuments such as the Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
The Parthenon is the most famous building within the Acropolis, a temple dedicated to Athena and the best-preserved symbol of classical Greece.
In short, the Acropolis is the hill and sacred complex, while the Parthenon is its crown jewel.
Plan Your Visit to the Acropolis Parthenon
Summer (Apr–Oct): 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Winter (Nov–Mar): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on major public holidays: Jan 1, Mar 25, May 1, Easter Sunday, Dec 25–26.
Most Preferred Tickets for the Acropolis Parthenon
Most Popular Acropolis of Athens Ticket
Discover Athens’ most iconic landmarks, from the Acropolis to the Ancient Agora, with a guided tour or enjoy the freedom of exploring the Acropolis at your own pace using a multilingual audio guide.
Includes
- Audio guide for the Old Town
- Timed entry to the Acropolis & Parthenon
- Temple of Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Theatre of Dionysus & More
“It's was fast and we skipped queue and audio experience was good . Prepaid booking helped us to save time and we had spent more time for experience.” Poorva, Aug. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Most Preferred Acropolis Guided Tour
Spend your day discovering Athens’ most iconic landmarks - the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Theater of Dionysus, and more alongside an expert guide, as you immerse yourself in 2,500 years of history, mythology, and culture.
Includes
- Entry to the Acropolis & Parthenon
- English-speaking Guide
- Temple of Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Theatre of Dionysus & More
- Headsets
“Our tour guide was very informed and answered all of our questions. Also the group stuck together the entire trip and was well guided.” Matthew, Aug. 2025 [Source: Haedout]
Bestseller Acropolis of Athens Combo Tickets
Step into the heart of ancient Athens with a combined ticket for the Acropolis and its Museum—admire the Parthenon, discover its priceless treasures inside, and uncover the full story with an audio guide or expert-led tour, all in just 3 to 4 hours.
Includes
- Entry to the Acropolis & Parthenon
- Entry to Acropolis Museum
- Self-guided Audio Tour
- Offline Content with 2 Interactive Maps
- More
“John the archeologist made this tour absolutely amazing. From his great charisma to detailed explanations it made the day a 10 out of 10 experience. We maneuvered through the busy crowds brilliantly and went at a perfect pace to enjoy it all!” Christian, Aug. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Bestseller Acropolis of Athens Combo Tickets
Step into the heart of ancient Athens with a combined ticket for the Acropolis and its Museum—admire the Parthenon, discover its priceless treasures inside, and uncover the full story with an audio guide or expert-led tour, all in just 3 to 4 hours.
Includes
- Single Entry to the Acropolis site
- Audio guide for the Acropolis & Athens Old Town (Plaka)
- Duration 2 hours - 1 day
- More
“Excellent! We thorough enjoyed visiting all the sites on the pass and the audioguide included.” Shirel, UK, Sep 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Bestseller Acropolis Museum Entry Ticket
Skip the lines at the Acropolis Museum in Athens and explore the wonders of ancient Greece up close, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Acropolis through the museum’s stunning glass walls.
Includes
- Skip-the-line Entry Ticket
- Access to the permanent collection
- Access to the temporary exhibitions
- Access to the excavation site under the venue
- Audio guide
- Map
“Great experience. The museum was very nice and we got to learn a lot about the culture of Greece.” Miguel, Sep. 2025 [Source: Tiqets]
Top-Value City Pass for Athens
The smartest way to discover Athens! With the Athens City Pass, skip the hassle and enjoy easy access to the city’s top highlights. Explore the Acropolis & Parthenon, ride the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, use handy audio guides, and more; all included at no extra cost for the complete Athens experience!
Includes
- City Pass
- 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- 3 GB Internet Data
- Audio Guide
- Free Cancellation
- More
“It was very useful package for athens. Really worth it! Customer service is also very helpful. Thank you.” Zeynep [Source: MegaPass]
FAQs about the Acropolis Parthenon
Is Parthenon free entry?
No, Parthenon is not free. Entry to the Parthenon is included in the Acropolis ticket. You cannot visit it separately or for free unless you qualify for free admission days or reduced categories.
→ Buy Your Acropolis Parthenon Tickets with Optional Audio Guide
Are the Acropolis and Parthenon the same thing?
No. The Acropolis is the entire ancient citadel on the hill, while the Parthenon is the largest and most famous temple located on it.
What is the Acropolis and why is it important?
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel on a rocky hill in the heart of Athens, home to iconic monuments like the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. It is important as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of democracy, philosophy, and classical architecture, making it one of the most significant landmarks in Western civilization.
Why was the Parthenon built on the Acropolis?
The Parthenon was built between 447–432 BC on the Acropolis to honor Athena Parthenos, the city’s patron goddess. Commissioned by Pericles, it showcased Athens’ wealth, cultural dominance, and devotion during its Golden Age. The temple also functioned as a treasury and celebrated the city’s military victories.
How long does it take to see the Parthenon and Acropolis?
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the Acropolis and its monuments, including the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea. If combined with the Acropolis Museum, plan at least half a day to fully experience the history, architecture, and artifacts of ancient Athens.
This is not the official venue's website. This website is giving you only an overview of the available ticket options.
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