The Acropolis of Athens – the best known acropolis in the world | Greece
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the best known in the world. The flat topped rock rises 150 meters above sea level in the city of Athens and has a surface area of about 3 hectares. ‘Acropolis’, when translated, means ‘high city’ and would be referred to in English as a ‘citadel’.
The Parthenon sits on the Acropolis and is dedicated to the Goddess Athena. The building embodies the grandeur and strength of the Athenian Empire.
Acropolis of Athens, Greece
The construction of the Parthenon began in 447 BC and was completed in 438 BC, not including continuing decoration of the temple. It is one of the most important buildings in Greece and is regarded as a lasting symbol of Ancient Greece and Athenian democracy. The structure is partially ruined and therefore the Greek government is carrying out extensive restoration and reconstruction to ensure the temple’s stability.
Since that time, many other buildings and temples were constructed on the Acropolis and subsequently destroyed. The area wasn’t properly excavated until the late 20th century. The excavation process is ongoing and the Acropolis Museum pays homage to the history of the area as well as the continuing work.
The Caryatids of the Erechtheion, the Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The museum was founded in 2003 in Athens and is home to most of the major findings from the archaeological site. Almost 4,000 objects are exhibited for the public to admire. The museum sits on the southeastern slope of the Acropolis hill making it the largest modern building to be erected so close to the ancient site.
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