The Parthenon dominates the Athens skyline and is the most celebrated building on the Acropolis site. Myth, religion and war are all related to this site, which is considered one of the most important symbols of Ancient Greece. One of the most recognisable buildings in the world, the Parthenon, along with the entire Acropolis preccinct, became a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1987.
The Parthenon housed the city’s treasures, and also showcased a gold and ivory statue of Athena Parthenos. It is reknowned as an example of Classical Greek architecture. The building is a double peripteral Doric temple made entirely of marble. It is famous for its distinctive columns, with eight columns on each of its shorter sides, and 17 columns on two longer sides. While many of its treasures – including the Elgin Marbles – have been removed, the Parthenon Freize, which depicts a procession of Athenias, animals and gods, has survived.
