Acropolis of Athens & Audioguide

General Information

The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous and significant archaeological sites in the world. It is an ancient citadel located on a rocky hill above the city of Athens, Greece, and has been central to Greek history, culture, and religion.

Key Facts About the Acropolis of Athens:

1. Location:
   The Acropolis stands at 156 meters (512 feet) above sea level and is easily visible from various parts of Athens. The term “Acropolis” means “upper city” in Greek, referring to its position as the highest point in the city.

2. Historical Significance: The Acropolis has been inhabited since prehistoric times, but its most important phase of construction began in the 5th century BCE, during the Golden Age of Athens under the leadership of Pericles. The structures on the Acropolis were primarily dedicated to the goddess Athena, the city’s patron deity.

3. Major Structures on the Acropolis:

   • The Parthenon:
     The most iconic structure on the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena Parthenos (Athena the Virgin). It was built between 447 and 438 BCE by architects Ictinos and Callicrates, with the sculptor Phidias responsible for the sculptures. The Parthenon is known for its Doric design and its elegant proportions. The Parthenon housed a massive statue of Athena made by Phidias, although it no longer exists today. The Parthenon also housed intricate sculptural decorations, including the famous Parthenon Marbles (also known as the Elgin Marbles), which are now housed in the British Museum.

   • The Erechtheion:
     The Erechtheion is an asymmetrical temple built to house the sacred relics of the gods Athena and Poseidon. It is famous for its Caryatids, the elegant columns in the form of female figures, which support the temple’s porch. According to myth, the Erechtheion was the site where the goddess Athena and Poseidon competed for the patronage of Athens.

   • The Temple of Athena Nike:
     This small temple was built on the southern parapet of the Acropolis to honor the goddesses Athena Nike (Victory). It is a graceful Ionic structure and is famous for its sculptural reliefs depicting scenes of warfare and victory.

   • The Propylaea:
     The Propylaea is the monumental gateway to the Acropolis. Built between 437 and 432 BCE, it consists of a grand structure with a central hall and two wings. It was designed by the architect Mnesicles and was intended to serve as the entrance to the sacred precinct of the Acropolis.

   • The Odeon of Herodes Atticus:
     A Roman structure located on the southern slope of the Acropolis, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus was built in 161 CE by the wealthy Roman citizen Herodes Atticus. It was a theater used for musical performances and remains in use today for modern performances.

4. Architectural and Artistic Features:

   • The architecture of the Acropolis is a symbol of Classical Greek art and engineering. The Doric and Ionic orders are the primary architectural styles employed in the construction of the temples and structures on the hill.
   • The Parthenon Marbles (or Elgin Marbles) are considered one of the finest examples of Greek sculpture, depicting gods, heroes, and mythological scenes. The frieze, metopes, and pediments are masterpieces of Greek art.
   • The Acropolis also features advanced techniques in the use of proportions and optical refinements. For instance, the Parthenon’s columns are slightly tilted inward, and the entasis (slight curvature) of the columns gives the structure an illusion of perfect straightness.

5. Cultural and Religious Significance:
   The Acropolis was a center of religious activity dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. The ancient Greeks believed that their city was under the protection of Athena, and the Acropolis housed her sacred temples and altars. The structures on the Acropolis symbolized the power, wealth, and cultural achievements of Athens at its height.

6. Modern Influence:
   The Acropolis continues to be a symbol of classical ideals, democracy, and ancient Greek culture. It is one of the most important landmarks in Western civilization, influencing art, architecture, and political thought throughout history. The Parthenon in particular has become a global symbol of ancient Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Conservation and Preservation:
   Over the centuries, the Acropolis has undergone many changes, including damage from natural disasters, invasions, and wars. The Parthenon, for example, was converted into a church, then a mosque, and later a gunpowder magazine, which led to its partial destruction during a Venetian bombardment in 1687. Efforts to preserve and restore the Acropolis and its monuments continue today, with international efforts aimed at stabilizing the structures and conserving the artwork.

Conclusion:

The Acropolis of Athens is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization, renowned for its architectural brilliance, religious importance, and cultural legacy. The monuments on the Acropolis are among the most recognizable and admired in the world, drawing visitors from around the globe who come to admire their timeless beauty and historical significance.