Acropolis and Parthenon
Our "main-most" visit in Athens, of course, was the Acropolis and Parthenon. The beginnings of the Acropolis, an ancient citadel, dates back to between 4000-3000BC. It sits about 490 feet above sea level and covers an area of about 7.5 acres.
Completed in 438BC, the most important addition to the Acropolis was the Parthenon, which was dedicated to the Greek goddess, Athena, patron of Athens. Restoration of the Parthenon began in 1975 and is expected to be completed in 2010. Its south side was severely damaged in 1687 when ammunition stored there by the Ottomans was ignited by a Venetian bombardment during the Morean war. Other important buildings include the Propylaia, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. For best viewing use an iPad or larger monitor. Click on the SLIDESHOW icon for the largest image size. Photos by Sue George, Norma Givens, and Deano Givens.
