Site Monuments At Acropolis Of Athens

Perched majestically atop the Acropolis hill, the magnificent Temple of Parthenon stands as a tribute to the revered goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron deity of the city of Athens. Erected during the mid-5th century B.C. as a testament to the city's grandeur, this architectural marvel was an integral part of Pericles' visionary program. The temple's awe-inspiring design was the brainchild of skilled architects Ictinus and Callicrates, who meticulously crafted its layout, ensuring a harmonious blend of form and function. As if touched by divine inspiration, the temple's embellishment and intricate detailing were meticulously overseen by the renowned sculptor Phidias, adding an extra layer of splendor to this sacred edifice.

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Gracefully perched on the northern side of the sacred Acropolis rock, the exquisite structure known as Erechtheion graces the landscape. Erected during the period between 421-406 BC, this architectural gem stands as a replacement for a former temple devoted to the revered goddess Athena Polias. Instead, it was dedicated to honor the mythical king Erechtheus, infusing the site with a rich tapestry of ancient legends and historical significance. With its harmonious blend of Ionic and Doric architectural styles, the Erechtheion's design is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and artistic prowess of its creators. The temple's enchanting Caryatids, sculpted columns in the form of graceful maidens, add a touch of unparalleled elegance to its facade, captivating all who come to behold this marvel.

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Standing proudly on the western side of the Acropolis hill in Athens, the Propylaea serves as a magnificent testament to the evolution of architectural prowess and historical significance. It replaced the original fortified gate of Mycenaean origin, which had once safeguarded the revered hill. The first iteration of this grand entrance, known as the Old Propylaea, took shape during the mid-6th century B.C., showcasing the architectural achievements of its time. However, after the turmoil of the Persian Wars, a new and more splendid Propylaea was constructed during the mid-5th century B.C., following the completion of the iconic Parthenon.

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The classic Temple of Athena Nike stands atop the bastion which used to protect the entrance to the Acropolis during Mycenaean times on the southeastern side. It was built in 426-421 BC by architect Kallikrates in dedication of the goddess Athena Nike. The cult statue of the goddess had been built without any wings, it was done so to prevent the goddess from abandoning the city.

Within the hallowed precincts of the Acropolis, an ancient sanctuary stands as a testament to the veneration of Brauronia Artemis, the benevolent guardian of expectant women. Dating back to the mid-6th century BC, this sacred shrine held a vital role in the lives of the people, offering solace and protection during the tender moments of childbirth. Adorned with architectural splendor, the shrine's magnificence was accentuated by its Doric pi-shaped portico, gracefully oriented to face the north. Ten stately columns rose proudly to the heavens, beckoning all who sought the blessings of the revered goddess. Along the southern side of the temple, a sturdy rectangular wall stood, a symbol of fortitude and permanence, resonating with the timeless devotion of its worshipers.

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In the eastern vicinity of the illustrious Parthenon, an ancient temple was raised during the first century BC, bearing witness to the passage of time. Although weathered by the ages, the site's historical significance remains palpable. Adjacent to this temple, one can discover irregular tufa foundations, revealing vestiges of Roman influence in the region. This petite and circular temple, adorned with a singular row of nine iconic columns, stood as a testament to the divine reverence for both the goddess Rome and the esteemed Octavian Augustus. Its compact yet majestic design exemplified the artistic and architectural finesse of the era, a fusion of cultures and beliefs interwoven in stone.

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In commemoration of the triumphant victory of Eumenes II of Pergamon in the Panathenaic games, a magnificent pedestal was erected in 178 BC. Positioned proudly opposite the north wing and Pinakothiki, this monument bore witness to the grandeur of ancient athletic achievements. Atop this impressive pedestal once stood a splendid bronze statue, depicting a magnificent four-horse chariot, expertly driven by none other than Eumenes himself, accompanied by the skilled charioteer Attaoos. The statue immortalized the glory of their triumph, capturing the essence of victory and the admiration of the people.

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It's the entry gate to the Acropolis of Athens which was constructed in the mid-3rd century AD and it stands next to the propylaea in the western direction

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The gate was constructed as a part of the program to protect the sacred complex dedicated to goddess Athena.

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You would find an elongated building standing near the south wall of Acropolis and in the east of the temple of Brauroneion, it is the Chalkotheke. It has a collection of metal votive offerings like weapons, statues and hydride presented to the goddess Athena.

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It’s the oldest construction standing in the complex of the Acropolis of Athens which was dedicated to Athena Polias. You would find the monument between the buildings of the temple of Erechtheion and the Parathenon and it was built during the 6th century BC. The Old temple of Athena is a Doric, peripheral structure with six columns on the breadth and 12 columns standing on its length.

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