When was the Greek Parthenon built?

The Greek Parthenon was built between 447 and 432 BCE.

What was the purpose of the Greek Parthenon?

The Greek Parthenon was built as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens, to celebrate her and to house her statue. It also served as a treasury and a symbol of Athenian power and cultural achievement.

Where is the Greek Parthenon located?

The Greek Parthenon is located in Athens, Greece, on the Acropolis hill.

Who was the architect of the Greek Parthenon?

The architects of the Greek Parthenon were Iktinos and Kallikrates.

What materials were used to build the Greek Parthenon?

The Parthenon was primarily constructed using Pentelic marble. Other materials included limestone for the foundation and wood for the roof beams. Bronze and gold accents were also used in decorations and sculptures.

What was one of the primary reasons for building the Parthenon?

To commemorate the unification of Athens with Sparta.

What significant event occurred to the Parthenon during the Venetian siege of Athens in 1687?

It was turned into a mausoleum.

Greek Parthenon: History & Architecture

History of Greek Parthenon

The Greek Parthenon is one of the most iconic structures of ancient Greece and represents a significant part of the heritage of Western architecture. This article delves into its history, focusing on its origins and construction, as well as key events and changes over time.

Origins and Construction

The origin of the Greek Parthenon dates back to the 5th century BC, during the Golden Age of Athens. It was commissioned by the Athenian statesman Pericles and designed by the architects Ictinus and Callicrates, with the sculptor Phidias overseeing the artistic decorations. The construction began around 447 BC and was completed in 438 BC, although decoration work continued until 432 BC.

Greek Parthenon: A former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patron.

The Parthenon’s construction is estimated to have cost around 469 silver talents, a vast sum for that time.

The Parthenon was built primarily from Pentelic marble, renowned for its pure white appearance and fine grain. This marble was quarried from the nearby Mount Pentelicus. The Parthenon's design follows the principles of Doric architecture, characterized by simple, geometric lines and limited ornamentation.

An example of the Parthenon's Doric design is its fluted columns, lacking bases, and adorned with plain capitals.

The Parthenon's columns exhibit a slight inward curve, known as entasis, which corrects optical illusions that make straight columns appear concave. This subtle feature highlights the advanced understanding of optical refinements by ancient Greek architects.

Key Events and Changes

Over the centuries, the Parthenon has undergone numerous changes and faced many challenges. Initially, it served as a temple dedicated to Athena. However, its function transformed following significant historical events.

In the 6th century AD, the Parthenon was converted into a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

When the Ottoman Turks captured Athens in the mid-15th century, the Parthenon was converted into a mosque. During this period, a minaret was added, marking one of the numerous transformations the building underwent.

An example of the Parthenon's adaptability is its conversion from a temple into a church and then into a mosque, illustrating how it was continuously repurposed to fit the dominant culture and religion of the time.

One of the most catastrophic events in the Parthenon's history was the explosion in 1687. During the Venetian siege of Athens, the Parthenon, being used as an Ottoman ammunition depot, was hit, causing extensive damage to the structure.

Following the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century, the Parthenon was reclaimed by Greece. Efforts to restore and preserve this ancient monument have been ongoing since, reflecting its enduring significance to Greek heritage and identity.

Why Was the Greek Parthenon Built

Understanding the reasons behind the construction of the Greek Parthenon provides insight into the cultural and historical context of ancient Athens. This article explores various purposes for which the Parthenon was built.

Dedication to Athena

One of the primary reasons the Parthenon was built was to honor Athena, the goddess of wisdom, courage, and warfare. The people of Athens considered Athena their patron and protector. The Parthenon served as her temple and housed a grand statue of Athena crafted by the sculptor Phidias.

The statue of Athena inside the Parthenon was approximately 12 meters tall and made of gold and ivory.

An example of the veneration of Athena is the annual festival of Panathenaia, held in her honor, which included sacrifices, games, and a grand procession to the Parthenon.

The statue of Athena Parthenos, created by Phidias, was an example of chryselephantine sculpture—a technique which involved plating with gold and ivory. This statue, richly adorned, not only underscored the wealth of Athens but reflected the immense skill of its craftsmen.

Symbol of Athenian Power

Beyond its religious significance, the Parthenon also symbolized the political and military power of Athens. Built after the Greek triumph over the Persians in the Persian Wars, it stood as a testament to the strength, resilience, and vibrancy of Athenian democracy.

The Parthenon was part of Pericles' larger plan to rebuild and beautify Athens, making it a cultural and political center of the ancient world. This construction project was funded by the Delian League's treasury, underscoring Athens' leadership among Greek city-states.

An example of the Parthenon's role in symbolizing Athenian power is the relief sculptures on the Parthenon Metopes, which depicted scenes of legendary battles like the Gigantomachy (battle between gods and giants), symbolizing the triumph of order over chaos.

The Parthenon was constructed using funds from the Delian League treasury, which was originally intended for defense against Persia.

The Parthenon's architectural refinements, such as its subtle curvature and optical corrections, were also demonstrations of the advanced knowledge and technological prowess possessed by the Athenians. These too served as symbols of their superiority and excellence.

Treasury and Function

The Parthenon also functioned as a treasury, housing the wealth of the Delian League. This included tributes paid by other city-states under Athenian control. The use of the Parthenon as a treasury highlighted its dual role in both sacred and secular affairs.

Delian League: An association of Greek city-states led by Athens, formed to defend against Persian influence and aggression.

Within the Parthenon, valuable offerings, sacred relics, and treasures were safeguarded, further emphasizing its importance beyond being merely a place of worship.

An example of the Parthenon's use as a treasury is its dual function where religious items and war spoils were stored together, symbolizing the intertwining of divine favor and military success.

Importance of Greek Parthenon in History

The Greek Parthenon holds immense historical significance, influencing numerous aspects of culture, art, symbolism, and religion. This article explores these influences and the Parthenon's lasting impact.

Influence on Culture and Art

The Parthenon has greatly impacted both Greek culture and Western art. It remains a cornerstone in the study of ancient Greek architecture and aesthetics.

Doric architecture: A style characterized by sturdy columns, plain capitals, and a focus on proportion and geometry.

As a hallmark of Doric architecture, the Parthenon's design principles have been emulated in various structures worldwide. Its influence is visible in countless government buildings, museums, and even private residences.

An example of the Parthenon's influence can be seen in the design of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., which mirrors the grandeur and simplicity of the Parthenon's structure.

The sculptural decorations of the Parthenon, such as the friezes and metopes, depicted important historical and mythical scenes that disseminated cultural values.

The Elgin Marbles, originally part of the Parthenon's decorative elements, further underline the global influence of this structure. These sculptures, now housed in the British Museum, have been a focal point in discussions about cultural heritage and repatriation of artifacts. In recent years, there has been a growing call for the return of these artifacts to Greece.

Symbolism and Religious Significance

The Parthenon stood as an enduring symbol of both religious devotion and civic pride for the Athenians. It was not merely a religious monument but an epitome of Athenian identity.

Athena Parthenos: A monumental statue created by the sculptor Phidias, representing the goddess Athena, and housed in the Parthenon.

The statue of Athena Parthenos, located within the Parthenon, was central to the religious life in Athens. It embodied the city's devotion to Athena, who was believed to protect and guide the city.

An example of the religious significance is the Panathenaic Festival, during which a grand procession culminated at the Parthenon, where offerings were made to Athena.

The orientation of the Parthenon towards the east allowed the statue of Athena to be illuminated by the rising sun, enhancing its divine presence.

The Parthenon's role as a religious center extended beyond Athena worship. Over time, it adapted to different religious functions and eras, serving as a Christian church and later as a mosque. Each transformation added layers to its historical and cultural narrative. The structure's ability to endure through various epochs highlights its versatility and lasting spiritual resonance. This adaptability is a testament to the Parthenon's complex identity and multifaceted significance in human history.

Greek Parthenon Architecture

The architecture of the Greek Parthenon is a testament to ancient craftsmanship and ingenuity. It remains one of the best examples of classical Greek architecture, influencing numerous subsequent structures.

Design and Structure

The design and structure of the Parthenon are quintessentially Doric, characterized by simplicity and strength. The Parthenon measures approximately 228 by 101 feet and is composed of a rectangular floor plan surrounded by 46 outer columns and 19 inner columns. These columns support the building's superstructure, known as the entablature.

Entablature: The superstructure of moldings and bands which lie horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals.

The Parthenon’s columns are slightly inclined inward, a feature known as entasis, designed to counteract optical illusions and give a sense of straightness. The monument's stylobate (the platform on which columns stand) is also curved to appear flat to the human eye.

The Parthenon has no straight lines; each element is slightly curved to correct optical illusions.

An example of the Parthenon’s attention to detail is its frieze, which depicts a procession in the Panathenaic Festival—a key religious event in Athens.

The Parthenon includes a range of sculptural decorations, each telling stories of gods, heroes, and mythical battles. The metopes feature high-relief carvings, showing battles between the Lapiths and the Centaurs, while the pediments depict the birth of Athena and her contest with Poseidon. The continuous frieze along the cella represents the Panathenaic procession, a religious ceremony held in honor of Athena.

Architectural Innovations

The Parthenon is not just a marvel of design but also one of ancient architectural innovation. The architects incorporated several unique elements to achieve both functionality and visual harmony.

An example of architectural innovation is the use of Pentelic marble, which has a slight amber hue that glows under the sunlight, enhancing the Parthenon's aesthetic appeal.

The architects also employed advanced techniques to ensure the building's stability and longevity. The Parthenon’s columns are slightly thicker at the center to give the illusion of straight lines—an innovation that showcases ancient Greeks' understanding of optical effects.

The Parthenon's foundation includes layers of limestone and crushed stone to provide a stable base on uneven ground.

The Parthenon's architectural innovations extend to its internal structure. The cella housed a colossal statue of Athena, made by Phidias, which was designed to be viewed through the entrance, creating a breathtaking visual experience.

Another significant innovation is the use of color and bronze fixtures. Originally, the Parthenon was adorned with vibrant colors and bronze accessories, creating a striking appearance that has since faded with time.

One of the most advanced features of the Parthenon is its drainage system. The building includes a hidden system of channels to drain rainwater and prevent damage to the marble. This level of foresight showcases the advanced engineering skills of ancient Greek architects. Additionally, the interlocking marble blocks were fitted together with such precision that they required no mortar, a technique that highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of the builders.

Who Built the Greek Parthenon

The construction of the Greek Parthenon is a monumental achievement in the annals of human history. Delving into who built this iconic structure reveals a blend of leadership, creativity, and skill that defined ancient Athens.

Key Figures

Several key figures played significant roles in bringing the Parthenon to life. These include statesmen, architects, and artists. Understanding their contributions provides a clearer picture of how this masterpiece came to be.

Pericles: A prominent and influential Greek statesman, orator, and general during the Golden Age of Athens. He initiated and funded the construction of the Parthenon.

Ictinus and Callicrates: The chief architects of the Parthenon. They were responsible for designing the structure and overseeing its construction.

Pericles used funds from the Delian League treasury to finance the construction of the Parthenon.

An example of Pericles' leadership is his decision to commission the Parthenon as part of a larger project to rebuild and beautify Athens after the Persian Wars.

Roles of the Architects and Sculptors

Ictinus and Callicrates were the architects behind the Parthenon's design. They implemented intricate details and used advanced techniques to ensure the structure's durability and aesthetic appeal. Their work was complemented by the efforts of Phidias, a renowned sculptor.

Phidias: An ancient Greek sculptor, painter, and architect, who oversaw the artistic decorations of the Parthenon, including the statue of Athena Parthenos.

An example of Phidias' work is the statue of Athena Parthenos, which stood approximately 12 meters tall within the Parthenon and was made of gold and ivory.

The Parthenon's sculptural decorations include a frieze depicting the Panathenaic Festival, showcasing the work of Phidias and his team.

The collaborative effort between Ictinus, Callicrates, and Phidias was crucial in ensuring the Parthenon was not just a marvel of architecture, but also an artistic masterpiece. The architects utilized a combination of Pentelic marble and innovative techniques, such as the slight inward curvature of columns (entasis) to correct optical illusions, to achieve visual perfection. This meticulous attention to detail demonstrates the advanced understanding and craftsmanship of ancient Greek artists and architects.

Labor Force and Techniques

The construction of the Parthenon also required a large and skilled labor force. This included stonemasons, carpenters, and other craftsmen, who each brought specialized skills to the project.

An example of the labor force's expertise is the precision cutting and fitting of the marble blocks, which required no mortar, demonstrating their exceptional craftsmanship.

Most of the workers were likely skilled artisans from Athens and nearby regions, contributing to the city's economic development.

The techniques used in constructing the Parthenon are remarkable. Builders employed a modular approach, cutting marble blocks into specific sizes that could be easily transported and assembled. The interlocking marble blocks provided structural stability without the need for mortar. Moreover, they implemented an advanced drainage system to prevent water damage—a testament to their engineering skills. These techniques highlight the ingenuity and precision of ancient Greek builders.

What Was the Greek Parthenon Used For

The Greek Parthenon has served multiple purposes throughout its history, reflecting its central importance to the city of Athens and its changing cultural landscape. Built primarily as a temple, it has also functioned as a political symbol, a treasury, and more.

Religious Center

The primary function of the Greek Parthenon was as a temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. The Parthenon served as the spiritual heart of Athens, where citizens worshiped and offered sacrifices to their patron goddess.

An example of the temple's use is during the Panathenaic Festival, where Athenians held grand processions to the Parthenon to honor Athena.

Inside the Parthenon stood a colossal statue of Athena Parthenos, which played a central role in the religious ceremonies.

Political Symbol

Beyond its religious role, the Parthenon also served as a powerful political symbol. It represented the strength and prestige of Athens, especially following their victories in the Persian Wars. The Parthenon showcased the wealth and power of the Athenian state.

The Parthenon was part of a broader project known as the Periclean Building Program. Led by Pericles, this initiative aimed to rebuild and beautify Athens, positioning the city as a cultural and political leader in the ancient world. The construction utilized funds from the Delian League, emphasizing Athens' dominance over other Greek city-states.

Treasury

The Parthenon also functioned as a treasury, storing valuable offerings and the wealth accumulated by Athens. This included tributes collected from other city-states, highlighting its dual role in both sacred and secular affairs.

An example of the Parthenon's use as a treasury is the storage of the Delian League's funds within its walls, illustrating its importance in both economic and political contexts.

The Parthenon housed sacred relics and treasures, safeguarding them from theft and damage.

In addition to its role as a treasury, the Parthenon was intricately linked with Athenian identity and pride. It was a symbol of the city's prosperity and cultural supremacy, serving as a reminder of Athenian achievements and their democratic governance. Detailed records and inventories were maintained, overseeing the items stored within the Parthenon, further demonstrating its administrative significance.

Other Uses Over Time

Over the centuries, the Parthenon has been repurposed for various functions. After Athens fell to different empires, the Parthenon's usage reflected the prevailing culture and religion.

An example of the Parthenon's adaptation is its conversion into a Christian church in the 6th century AD, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

During the Ottoman rule, the Parthenon was transformed into a mosque, which included the addition of a minaret.

The Parthenon's versatility underscores its significance through various historical periods. Its adaptative reuse exemplifies how different civilizations left their mark on this iconic structure, making it a palimpsest of history. The Parthenon's transformation into a mosque during Ottoman rule, and later its partial destruction during the Venetian siege in 1687, adds layers to its historical narrative, reflecting the changing dynamics of the region over centuries.

Greek Parthenon - Key takeaways

Greek Parthenon: A temple on the Athenian Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena, built in the 5th century BC by Pericles, Ictinus, Callicrates, and Phidias.
Architectural Design: Constructed primarily from Pentelic marble with Doric architectural style, featuring fluted columns and entasis to correct optical illusions.
Multiple Functions: Initially a temple for Athena, later used as a Christian church, a mosque, and a treasury for the Delian League.
Historical Significance: Represents Athenian power, resilience, and influence on Western art and architecture, with notable events including an explosion in 1687 and ongoing restoration efforts.
Key Figures: Pericles (initiator), Ictinus and Callicrates (architects), and Phidias (sculptor who created the statue of Athena Parthenos).

Greek Parthenon

StudySmarter Editorial Team