The Parthenon

I may be the only one here who knew basically zilch about the Acropolis before I came to visit. I do know however that every time I see a picture of the Acropolis, it was always the Parthenon they show. So, it was imprinted in my brain that the Parthenon must be the centerpiece of the Acropolis.
Parthenon is the temple of goddess Athena, who was considered the protector of the Greeks. Any information about the Parthenon can easily be googled, so I'm leaving this task to you.
This side of the temple is wrapped in scaffolding signifying restorations are in progress.
Close up detailing


I am guessing this is one of the pediments. [A pediment is a classical architectural element consisting of the triangular section found above the horizontal structure (entablature), typically supported by columns. The gable end of the pediment is surrounded by the cornice moulding. The tympanum, or triangular area within the pediment, was often decorated with sculptures and reliefs demonstrating scenes of Greek and Roman mythology or allegorical figures. It also consisted of many bright colours suitable to the nature of the building being adorned.]
This side of the Parthenon has sustained considerable damage during the 1687 explosion.

I don't know how the gov't gets funding for the restoration, but with Greece's financial woes I am hoping that they would find ways to keep the restoration going. It's a shame not to.

Comments

  1. I doubt they will find the money to continue...and yes...this would be a shame.

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  2. There you finally showed this awesome piece of art that has withstand history and critic. To quote my dad "The Parthenon is older than Jesus Christ..." --- a line etched in my memory from a photo he sent me as a child during one of his travels... :)

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  3. Such an amazing place. It's been many years since I visited, I'd love to return (with a better camera this time!).

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  4. It's an impressive place, hope they get the funds somehow. I remember visiting on a Sunday and it was for free.
    Great shots,thanks for sharing

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  5. I heard that Athens is so broke right now that the British are encouraging them to sell the Parthenon! Must be expensive to maintain the Parthenon. It's always under scaffolding and constantly being renovated!

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  6. I'm in the same boat with you, Maria, about history and what I do or don't know. But this is wonderful that you got to see all of this. I love these posts. You have really whetted my appetite!

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  7. Parthenon is so famous, an amazing temple, a wonderful place, and your beautiful images very well describe it.

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  8. magnificent! saw some Parthenon sculptures and marbles at the British Museum a few years ago. love your photos!

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  9. Excellent shots! This is an amazing place to visit. I really hope they will find some funds somehow.

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  10. These columns are amazing!

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  11. It's one massive restoration project that looks like years from being finished. Perhaps the UNESCO could help them this time? The Parthenon still looks grand though.

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  12. The Parthenon is the highlight of a trip to Greece. If you didn't see the Parthenon, you didn't go to Greece. LOL

    Great shots, Photo Cache.

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  13. gr8 shots! lucky of you to catch a clear sky, love the detailed work you've captured, always makes you wonder how amazing the people were, esp.with regards to craftsmanship. ^-^

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  14. I think it's amazing that some of the carving is still in such good shape after all these centuries. I enjoyed this post.

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  15. i really am a fan of great architectural designs like this one but what i appreciate in this post too are the facts and figures that they include. it's when you really get to appreciate the place even without a tourist guide.

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  16. nice pics.. amazing how they preserved the site over the ages !

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  17. nice pics... amazing how they preserved the site through the ages !

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  18. terrific shots! i like all the detail

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  19. stunning photos.... i hope they do keep up with the restoration, it would be a great loss not to do so..... and those tulips on your blog cache.... they are breathtaking... the colors are so vibrant... love it!

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  20. This takes me back to my art history class. I have such an appreciation for this. One of these days maybe I can see them for myself.

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