Parthenon in Athens

Definition

The Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patroness. Built between 447 and 432 BC, it symbolizes the power and cultural achievements of ancient Athens during its Golden Age. The architectural design of the Parthenon represents the ideals of ancient Greek art and has influenced countless structures in subsequent historical periods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Parthenon was designed by architects Iktinos and Kallikrates, with sculptor Phidias overseeing its artistic elements.
2. It is a prime example of ancient Greek architecture and was constructed using the Doric order, which emphasizes simplicity and strength.
3. The Parthenon housed a monumental statue of Athena Parthenos, which was about 40 feet tall and adorned with precious materials.
4. Throughout history, the Parthenon has served various purposes, including as a church and a mosque, reflecting its adaptability and cultural significance.
5. In modern times, the Parthenon stands as an enduring symbol of democracy, art, and Western civilization, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Review Questions

• How does the architectural design of the Parthenon reflect the values and aesthetics of ancient Athens?
  • The architectural design of the Parthenon reflects ancient Athens' values through its use of the Doric order, emphasizing harmony, proportion, and simplicity. The temple's grandeur and meticulous attention to detail showcase Athenian commitment to art and beauty. Additionally, as a temple dedicated to Athena, it symbolizes civic pride and religious devotion, embodying the cultural achievements that characterized Athens during its Golden Age.
• Discuss the various functions that the Parthenon served throughout its history and their significance to Athenian identity.
  • Originally built as a temple for Athena, the Parthenon later served multiple functions, including being converted into a Christian church and then a mosque during Ottoman rule. These transitions highlight the building's adaptability to different cultures while remaining a central symbol of Athenian identity. Each function reflected changes in religious practices and societal values, yet the structure remained a testament to Athenian artistry and civic pride.
• Evaluate the impact of the Parthenon's architectural innovations on later civilizations and how they shaped subsequent urban planning.
  • The Parthenon's architectural innovations significantly impacted later civilizations by establishing standards for symmetry, proportion, and column design that influenced Roman architecture and Renaissance revival styles. Its design principles became foundational in Western architecture, inspiring iconic structures such as St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. As cities evolved over centuries, urban planning increasingly incorporated elements inspired by classical architecture, highlighting how the Parthenon's legacy extended far beyond its original context in ancient Athens.

Related terms

Acropolis: An elevated area in Athens that served as the center of religious and political life, home to several important structures, including the Parthenon.

Doric Order: One of the classical orders of ancient Greek architecture characterized by simple, sturdy columns and a plain capital, used in the construction of the Parthenon.

Athena Parthenos: A massive statue of Athena made of gold and ivory that originally stood inside the Parthenon, symbolizing the city’s devotion to the goddess.