Acropolis of Athens
Attikí
The Acropolis of Athens is a historic citadel located on a rocky hill rising 150 meters above the city of Athens. It features several ancient buildings of great architectural and cultural significance, most famously the Parthenon, which was constructed under the leadership of Pericles in the 5th century BC. The site also includes the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, all masterpieces of classical Greek architecture. The Acropolis served as a religious center dedicated primarily to Athena, the city's patron goddess, and reflects Athens' political and cultural power during its golden age. Despite suffering damage during the 1687 Venetian siege, the monuments remain emblematic symbols of ancient Greek civilization and have deeply influenced Western art and architecture. The site is a blend of natural rock formations and monumental architecture, representing the pinnacle of classical aesthetics and engineering.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Acropolis is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to skip long lines. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and EU citizens. Comfortable shoes are advised due to uneven paths and steps. Guided tours provide deeper insight into the site's history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •The word 'Acropolis' means 'highest city' in Greek and is a generic term for a city citadel, but the Athens Acropolis is the most famous.
- •The Parthenon was severely damaged in 1687 when gunpowder stored inside exploded during a Venetian siege.
- •The Acropolis was once known as 'Cecropia' after the mythical first king of Athens, Cecrops.
- •The Cyclopean wall built during the Mycenaean era was up to 10 meters high and served as a defensive fortification for centuries.
History
The Acropolis hill has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, with evidence of settlement dating back to the 4th millennium BC.
During the late Bronze Age, a Mycenaean palace stood on the site, protected by a massive Cyclopean wall.
In the Archaic period, the Acropolis gained a religious character with the establishment of the worship of Athena Polias and the construction of early temples such as the Hekatompedon.
The classical monuments, including the Parthenon, were built in the 5th century BC during Athens' golden age under Pericles.
The Acropolis suffered significant damage in 1687 during a Venetian bombardment in the Morean War when stored gunpowder exploded within the Parthenon.
Place Guide
The Parthenon447–432 BC
The Parthenon is the most iconic temple on the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena Parthenos. Built in the 5th century BC under Pericles, it exemplifies Doric architecture and housed a monumental statue of Athena.
Propylaea437–432 BC
The Propylaea is the grand entrance gateway to the Acropolis, constructed in the mid-5th century BC. It combines Doric and Ionic architectural elements and serves as a monumental gateway to the sacred precinct.
Erechtheion421–406 BC
The Erechtheion is an ancient temple notable for its asymmetrical design and the Porch of the Caryatids, featuring sculpted female figures as columns. It was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon.
Temple of Athena Nike427–424 BC
A small Ionic temple located on the southwest corner of the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena Nike, the goddess of victory. It celebrates Athens' military successes and protection.
Contact
Phone: 21 0321 4172
