Acropolis and Parthenon

• The Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon

For most of us the name "Acropolis" is related to the Greek capital. And it is very true, because Acropolis and the most famous of the five criteria listed by UNESCO. However, the "Acropolis" - a common noun. By definition - is elevated and usually fortified part of the ancient Greek town, the upper town, a fortress, a refuge in case of war. For example, the acropolis was called the old center of the ancient city of Byzantium. Acropolis were in many Greek cities on these hilltops were generally temples patron deities. So, Acropolis (again, not to be confused with a necropolis - the burial place) - a hill, he was not alone.

And the Parthenon - one. This monument of ancient architecture built in the 5th century BC. e. on the Acropolis of Athens. The Parthenon was the main temple of ancient Athens and is dedicated to the patron of Attica, the goddess Athena. Not to be confused with the Pantheon, located in Rome. With titles sorted out, we go for a walk.

Morning - the best time for the elevation of the Acropolis. By noon it will threaten to storm raging streams of tourists.

There are several entrances and ticket offices. We entered through the south-east, the one where the theater of Dionysus is located.

The original theater was built in the 5th century. BC. e. and it was made of wood. In the 4th century it was rebuilt, it became marble.

Since ancient theater was enormous, he had no roof slabs. All theatrical performances were held in natural light, the audience settled down in the open.

Top view of the rest of the theater. By the way, it is planned to partial recovery.

On the southern slope of the Acropolis is very well preserved Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

There were performed singing and music competitions.

Climb to the top of the hill.

Dilapidated Parthenon.

Athena Parthenos, the ancient Greek sculpture Phidias, once housed in the ancient building.

A fragment of the pediment.

Now here despite the crisis in the country under reconstruction and restoration work.

Very slowly, but progress.

The man in a suit on the background of the Parthenon.

A young couple on the background of Athens.

Greek flag on top of the Acropolis.

One of the sanctuaries.

Buying a single ticket, you can visit besides the Acropolis of Athens and other ruins and archaeological locations: Areopagus, Agora, Hadrian's Library.