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The Older Parthenon or Pre‐Parthenon, as it is frequently referred to, constitutes the first endeavour to build a sanctuary for Athena Parthenos on the site of the present Parthenon on the Acropolis of Athens. It was begun shortly after the battle of Marathon (c. 490–88 BC) upon a massive limestone foundation that extended and leveled the southern part of the Acropolis summit. This building replaced a hekatompedon (meaning "hundred‐footer") and would have stood beside the archaic temple dedicated to Athena Polias.
The Old Parthenon was still under construction when the Persians sacked the city in the Destruction of Athens in 480 BC, and razed the acropolis during the Second Persian invasion of Greece. The existence of the proto‐Parthenon and its destruction was known from Herodotus and the drums of its columns were plainly visible built into the curtain wall north of the Erechtheum. Further material evidence of this structure was revealed with the excavations of Panagiotis Kavvadias of 1885–1890. The findings of this dig allowed Wilhelm Dörpfeld, then director of the German Archaeological Institute, to assert that there existed a distinct substructure to the original Parthenon, called Parthenon I by Dörpfeld, not immediately below the present edifice as had been previously assumed. Dörpfeld’s observation was that the three steps of the first Parthenon consist of two steps of poros limestone, the same as the foundations, and a top step of Karrha limestone that was covered by the lowest step of the Periclean Parthenon. This platform was smaller and slightly to the north of the final Parthenon, indicating that it was built for a wholly different building, now wholly covered over. This picture was somewhat complicated by the publication of the final report on the 1885–90 excavations indicating that the substructure was contemporary with the Kimonian walls, and implying a later date for the first temple.
Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war, daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJan 14, 2018
Well organized for visitors. Amazing views. Make sure to be there before 17.00 cuz that's when they close (winter time). If you're planning to visit museums around you should come before 15.00. For better pictures stay litter lower, all the crowd will pass.
Agnieszka TeodorowiczFeb 23, 2018
Wonderful and wonderous, the hill stands above impressing you from far away, but it is nothing until you get close, the walk up is not too bad, with plenty to engage you. The restoration works while a little intrusive is slowly bringing back the original form. The monumental works are far more impressive than any pictures you seen so far. The ancient peoples liked the monuments they made awe inspiring. Get the 30€ multi pass and see all of them over a few days, even my kids 7,9 years made it. .
Steve FurphyFeb 14, 2018
You shouldn't leave from Athens without visiting! The history that this place carries and its impact in the modern human civilisation is obvious in every little piece of land. The view of Athens is breath taking and at the far edge (where the flag is positioned) one can see part of the city as it used to be 60-80 years ago. A large part of the temple has already been restored, however the front facing part is still covered.
Panos BeretsosFeb 23, 2018
The greatest monument in the world. The view is great and you can see the greatness of ancient Athens in its whole. A place you must visit.
Χριστόφορος ΓκούσηςFeb 15, 2018
We arrived in the afternoon when the line to get a ticket was extremely long. It would've taken us an hour just to buy a ticket had we waited in line. Instead we took part in a guided tour that was being offered by a local Greek tour guide. I don't recall her name but she was amazing. The tour was about an hour and she provided great insight into the sights. At the end, we had time on our own but left soon after.
Natasha PendergrassApr 20, 2018
Stunning historical piece of gold of Athens! We spent the whole day up here just absorbing the magnificent structure! Its weird how up here it is relaxing and quiet, and down below in the city its mad and manic! Apart from the pocket of crowds made by tourists, this place was perfect! The views you get are awesome, especially during sunset! Take sunscreen, a good pair of walking shoes and some water for the journey to the top!
Shantosh DuttaMar 11, 2018
Best to visit as soon as it opens. Gets busier and hotter as the day goes on. It's a good feeling to walk around history, however, detailed exhibits have been removed or replaced with replicas. If you are very interested then you need a guide.
Robert NieldMay 2, 2018
It feels ludicrous rating one of the world's most famous heritage sights but here we go. If you're in anyway interested in classical history then you have to visit but you already know that. It gets busy, it gets hot (even in Spring) and the view it offers is great (both the site itself and the rest of Athens). Watch your steps though, I found a couple of the floor surfaces to be smooth to the point of being slippery.
Darian LinehanMay 5, 2018
Such a surprise to get to the top of the Acropolis and see that this temple was actually really big! It's simply overwhelming to know that all the incredible heavy columns were transported from another mountain miles away in a time technology was nonexistent. There are parts of the temple that were blown away after some battle in the past (can't remember quite well who kept powder inside it), but the energy is still wonderful.
Rodrigo NúñezMay 6, 2018
Goddess Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war and the daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJun 18, 2018
Magnificent! Cannot oversell how impressive this site is! Unfortunate that it is under restoration, but the Acropolis, especially the Parthenon is gorgeous. There are so many historical events that have taken place here and all have its own importance. This structure served as a Pagan Temple, Catholic Church, an Islamic Mosque and is now one of the Wonders of the World!
Keshav ViswanathanJun 12, 2018
Everyone says to go early because of the heat and crowds. Everyone is correct. Expect to slowly meander through the acropolis in a line and be poked with umbrellas but his gives you more time to appreciate where you are. Costs €20 Pro tip: only €10 if you have a student ID! Pro tip 2: download Rick Steve’s Acropolis podcast for a free and detailed audio tour!
Michelle FrancoJun 20, 2018
Sheer beauty. You'll be amazed by the huge structure built with such big stones blocks. The site is very informative. It has impressively big pillars which hold the roof which is artiscally done. It's view from all sides is nice and even in summers it was quite windy
Hemantika ShrivastavaJun 14, 2018
Such a great and historical place ever seen in Athens. I can say it is the piece of gold of Athens. We spend quality time with my lovely team mates and lovely friends.. I have enjoyed lots of fun.. Every person should travel and see this unique place.. I think you all enjoyed this place...
Gautam DasMay 20, 2018
Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war, daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJan 14, 2018
Well organized for visitors. Amazing views. Make sure to be there before 17.00 cuz that's when they close (winter time). If you're planning to visit museums around you should come before 15.00. For better pictures stay litter lower, all the crowd will pass.
Agnieszka TeodorowiczFeb 23, 2018
Wonderful and wonderous, the hill stands above impressing you from far away, but it is nothing until you get close, the walk up is not too bad, with plenty to engage you. The restoration works while a little intrusive is slowly bringing back the original form. The monumental works are far more impressive than any pictures you seen so far. The ancient peoples liked the monuments they made awe inspiring. Get the 30€ multi pass and see all of them over a few days, even my kids 7,9 years made it. .
Steve FurphyFeb 14, 2018
You shouldn't leave from Athens without visiting! The history that this place carries and its impact in the modern human civilisation is obvious in every little piece of land. The view of Athens is breath taking and at the far edge (where the flag is positioned) one can see part of the city as it used to be 60-80 years ago. A large part of the temple has already been restored, however the front facing part is still covered.
Panos BeretsosFeb 23, 2018
The greatest monument in the world. The view is great and you can see the greatness of ancient Athens in its whole. A place you must visit.
Χριστόφορος ΓκούσηςFeb 15, 2018
We arrived in the afternoon when the line to get a ticket was extremely long. It would've taken us an hour just to buy a ticket had we waited in line. Instead we took part in a guided tour that was being offered by a local Greek tour guide. I don't recall her name but she was amazing. The tour was about an hour and she provided great insight into the sights. At the end, we had time on our own but left soon after.
Natasha PendergrassApr 20, 2018
Stunning historical piece of gold of Athens! We spent the whole day up here just absorbing the magnificent structure! Its weird how up here it is relaxing and quiet, and down below in the city its mad and manic! Apart from the pocket of crowds made by tourists, this place was perfect! The views you get are awesome, especially during sunset! Take sunscreen, a good pair of walking shoes and some water for the journey to the top!
Shantosh DuttaMar 11, 2018
Best to visit as soon as it opens. Gets busier and hotter as the day goes on. It's a good feeling to walk around history, however, detailed exhibits have been removed or replaced with replicas. If you are very interested then you need a guide.
Robert NieldMay 2, 2018
It feels ludicrous rating one of the world's most famous heritage sights but here we go. If you're in anyway interested in classical history then you have to visit but you already know that. It gets busy, it gets hot (even in Spring) and the view it offers is great (both the site itself and the rest of Athens). Watch your steps though, I found a couple of the floor surfaces to be smooth to the point of being slippery.
Darian LinehanMay 5, 2018
Such a surprise to get to the top of the Acropolis and see that this temple was actually really big! It's simply overwhelming to know that all the incredible heavy columns were transported from another mountain miles away in a time technology was nonexistent. There are parts of the temple that were blown away after some battle in the past (can't remember quite well who kept powder inside it), but the energy is still wonderful.
Rodrigo NúñezMay 6, 2018
Goddess Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war and the daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJun 18, 2018
Magnificent! Cannot oversell how impressive this site is! Unfortunate that it is under restoration, but the Acropolis, especially the Parthenon is gorgeous. There are so many historical events that have taken place here and all have its own importance. This structure served as a Pagan Temple, Catholic Church, an Islamic Mosque and is now one of the Wonders of the World!
Keshav ViswanathanJun 12, 2018
Everyone says to go early because of the heat and crowds. Everyone is correct. Expect to slowly meander through the acropolis in a line and be poked with umbrellas but his gives you more time to appreciate where you are. Costs €20 Pro tip: only €10 if you have a student ID! Pro tip 2: download Rick Steve’s Acropolis podcast for a free and detailed audio tour!
Michelle FrancoJun 20, 2018
Sheer beauty. You'll be amazed by the huge structure built with such big stones blocks. The site is very informative. It has impressively big pillars which hold the roof which is artiscally done. It's view from all sides is nice and even in summers it was quite windy
Hemantika ShrivastavaJun 14, 2018
Such a great and historical place ever seen in Athens. I can say it is the piece of gold of Athens. We spend quality time with my lovely team mates and lovely friends.. I have enjoyed lots of fun.. Every person should travel and see this unique place.. I think you all enjoyed this place...
Gautam DasMay 20, 2018
Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war, daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJan 14, 2018
Well organized for visitors. Amazing views. Make sure to be there before 17.00 cuz that's when they close (winter time). If you're planning to visit museums around you should come before 15.00. For better pictures stay litter lower, all the crowd will pass.
Agnieszka TeodorowiczFeb 23, 2018
Wonderful and wonderous, the hill stands above impressing you from far away, but it is nothing until you get close, the walk up is not too bad, with plenty to engage you. The restoration works while a little intrusive is slowly bringing back the original form. The monumental works are far more impressive than any pictures you seen so far. The ancient peoples liked the monuments they made awe inspiring. Get the 30€ multi pass and see all of them over a few days, even my kids 7,9 years made it. .
Steve FurphyFeb 14, 2018
You shouldn't leave from Athens without visiting! The history that this place carries and its impact in the modern human civilisation is obvious in every little piece of land. The view of Athens is breath taking and at the far edge (where the flag is positioned) one can see part of the city as it used to be 60-80 years ago. A large part of the temple has already been restored, however the front facing part is still covered.
Panos BeretsosFeb 23, 2018
The greatest monument in the world. The view is great and you can see the greatness of ancient Athens in its whole. A place you must visit.
Χριστόφορος ΓκούσηςFeb 15, 2018
We arrived in the afternoon when the line to get a ticket was extremely long. It would've taken us an hour just to buy a ticket had we waited in line. Instead we took part in a guided tour that was being offered by a local Greek tour guide. I don't recall her name but she was amazing. The tour was about an hour and she provided great insight into the sights. At the end, we had time on our own but left soon after.
Natasha PendergrassApr 20, 2018
Stunning historical piece of gold of Athens! We spent the whole day up here just absorbing the magnificent structure! Its weird how up here it is relaxing and quiet, and down below in the city its mad and manic! Apart from the pocket of crowds made by tourists, this place was perfect! The views you get are awesome, especially during sunset! Take sunscreen, a good pair of walking shoes and some water for the journey to the top!
Shantosh DuttaMar 11, 2018
Best to visit as soon as it opens. Gets busier and hotter as the day goes on. It's a good feeling to walk around history, however, detailed exhibits have been removed or replaced with replicas. If you are very interested then you need a guide.
Robert NieldMay 2, 2018
It feels ludicrous rating one of the world's most famous heritage sights but here we go. If you're in anyway interested in classical history then you have to visit but you already know that. It gets busy, it gets hot (even in Spring) and the view it offers is great (both the site itself and the rest of Athens). Watch your steps though, I found a couple of the floor surfaces to be smooth to the point of being slippery.
Darian LinehanMay 5, 2018
Such a surprise to get to the top of the Acropolis and see that this temple was actually really big! It's simply overwhelming to know that all the incredible heavy columns were transported from another mountain miles away in a time technology was nonexistent. There are parts of the temple that were blown away after some battle in the past (can't remember quite well who kept powder inside it), but the energy is still wonderful.
Rodrigo NúñezMay 6, 2018
Goddess Athena is the patron of Athens. She is the Greek goddess of war and the daughter of Zeus. Parthenon is an ancient temple in Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Goddess Athena. Entry free for Acropolis is 10 euros. Once you hike the mount you feel that you are walking through ancient history among men and Gods. Preservation of the ancient site is in progress and you will see in good hands. Along the way there are explanatory notes to get you up to speed. Also ask the duty security hands if you have some questions. Also English language guides are available. It is truly a treasured experience.
Capt. Jibin JosephJun 18, 2018
Magnificent! Cannot oversell how impressive this site is! Unfortunate that it is under restoration, but the Acropolis, especially the Parthenon is gorgeous. There are so many historical events that have taken place here and all have its own importance. This structure served as a Pagan Temple, Catholic Church, an Islamic Mosque and is now one of the Wonders of the World!
Keshav ViswanathanJun 12, 2018
Everyone says to go early because of the heat and crowds. Everyone is correct. Expect to slowly meander through the acropolis in a line and be poked with umbrellas but his gives you more time to appreciate where you are. Costs €20 Pro tip: only €10 if you have a student ID! Pro tip 2: download Rick Steve’s Acropolis podcast for a free and detailed audio tour!
Michelle FrancoJun 20, 2018
Sheer beauty. You'll be amazed by the huge structure built with such big stones blocks. The site is very informative. It has impressively big pillars which hold the roof which is artiscally done. It's view from all sides is nice and even in summers it was quite windy
Hemantika ShrivastavaJun 14, 2018
Such a great and historical place ever seen in Athens. I can say it is the piece of gold of Athens. We spend quality time with my lovely team mates and lovely friends.. I have enjoyed lots of fun.. Every person should travel and see this unique place.. I think you all enjoyed this place...
Gautam DasMay 20, 2018
Wander is a travel search engine that allows you to find the perfect travel destination that fits your budget and preferences.