Discover Athens Acropolis: 4 Authentic Ancient Greek Temples
Nestled atop a rocky outcrop, the Athens Acropolis stands as a timeless testament to the glory of ancient Greece.
As travelers wander through its storied ruins, they are transported back to an era of gods and heroes.
In this blog post, we’ll explore four authentic ancient Greek temples that grace this iconic site, each brimming with history and architectural marvels.
From the majestic Parthenon to the lesser-known gems tucked away in the shadows, join us on a journey that uncovers the rich tapestry of traditions and craftsmanship that define the Athens Acropolis.
Prepare to be inspired by the stories these ancient stones have to tell!
Table of Contents for Athens Acropolis
The Erechtheion: ancient Greek Temple of the Ionic order
The Erechtheion is one of the most famous Ancient Greek Temples in the Athens Acropolis because of the Caryatids. It is one of the ancient Greek temples of the Ionic order. Its name comes from the name of Erechtheus, the mythical king of Athens.
The construction probably started before the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War (431 B.C) or after the conclusion of the “peace of Nicias” (421 B C. and was finished in 406 B C.).
The Erechtheion consists of two sections divided by an interior wall. The eastern section was 3 m higher than the western. It was dedicated to Athena and housed the Xoanon, the ancient wooden cult statue of the goddess.
The western section was also divided into three parts dedicated to the cult of Poseidon, Hephaestus and the hero Butes.
On the south side, there is the Porch of the Maidens. Six statues of young women support the roof of the porch. At the north side there is instead a porch with 6 Ionic columns.
Today, the figures of white marble that were attached to the decoration of the upper part of the building are preserved in the Acropolis Museum: https://youtu.be/49TsjfebAH0.
Also the original Caryatids are preserved in the Acropolis Museum. In fact, the ones in the temple are only copies.
The Temple of Athena Nike: a small Greek Temple
The Temple of Athena Nike is a small ancient greek temple on the Acropolis of Athens. It was dedicated to Athena Nike, the goddess of war and protectress of the city. It was built in the classical era, around 420 B.C.
The classical temple was built over an earlier small temple, which housed the Xoanon.
The architect Kallikrates built the classical temple in the Ionic order, with four columns at the front and as well as the rear. It’s made with the native Pentelic marble.
In the temple rich sculptural decoration praises the victorious battles of the Athenians.
Gold-plated bronze Nike decorated the corners of the gables. The Ionic frieze, which runs along the upper part of the temple depicts Greek wars and on the east side the assembly of the Olympian gods.
The Old Temple of Athena
The Old Temple of Athena on the Athens Acropolis was an Archaic temple situated to the south of the Erechtheion.
Today, only the foundations are still visible. This ancient Greek temple was built in 525-500 BC. It was destroyed in 480 BC, during the Persian invasion. Many of its parts are now incorporated in the wall of the Acropolis.
It was dedicated to Athena Polias, and it housed the Xoanon, as well as the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike. The western section was divided into three parts. It was possibly dedicated to the cult of Poseidon, Hephaestus, and the hero Boutes.
The Old Temple of Athena is a Doric peripteral building. It has six columns at the front, as well as at the rear, and 12 at the sides. It was built of porous, white marble was used for some upper parts, such as the metopes, pedimental sculptures, and tiles.
One pediment was adorned with a sculpted group illustrating the Gigantomachy, while the other featured a partially preserved group of lions devouring a bull.
The altar located to the east of the temple is no longer preserved.
The Parthenon
Last but not least on the Athens Acropolis there is the famous Parthenon. There is a lot to say about this temple. If you want to know more about this Ancient Greek Temple visit the following page: Why is the Parthenon so special? Why is it famous?
Faqs
Explore the FAQs for Athens Acropolis: Uncover 4 Genuine Ancient Greek Temples.
What is the Athens Acropolis and why is it significant?
The Athens Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens, famous for its remarkable temples and monuments, serving as a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and culture.
Which temples can be found at the Athens Acropolis?
The Athens Acropolis is home to four iconic temples: the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, each showcasing stunning ancient architecture and historical importance.
How can I best experience the Athens Acropolis?
To fully experience the Athens Acropolis, plan your visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, and consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding of its history and significance.
Is there an entrance fee for the Athens Acropolis?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Athens Acropolis, which grants access to all the main archaeological sites; reduced tickets are available for students and seniors.
What are the best times to visit the Athens Acropolis?
The best times to visit the Athens Acropolis are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller.
Are there any guided tours available for the Athens Acropolis?
Yes, numerous guided tours are available for the Athens Acropolis, ranging from group tours to private experiences, often including skip-the-line access and in-depth commentary.
How do I get to the Athens Acropolis from the city center?
The Athens Acropolis is easily accessible from the city center by metro (Acropoli station), bus, or taxi, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Athens.
What should I wear when visiting the Athens Acropolis?
It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and light clothing when visiting the Athens Acropolis, as you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and may encounter warm weather.
Can I take photos at the Athens Acropolis?
Yes, photography is allowed at the Athens Acropolis, but there are specific rules to follow. Furthermore, be respectful of other visitors and follow any posted guidelines regarding flash photography.
What else is there to do near the Athens Acropolis?
Near the Athens Acropolis, you can explore the Acropolis Museum, stroll through the historic Plaka neighborhood, and visit other ancient sites like the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
View from Athens Acropolis
Watch the following video of the view from Athens Acropolis!
You can watch the video directly here or on YouTube at the following link: https://youtu.be/wN7eHRck54Q. If you are reading this article from your smartphone, scroll to the bottom of the page and exit the mobile mode to view it directly on this page.
Athens Acropolis – Related posts:
- Areopagus Athens famous for apostle Paul talk
- Is the Parthenon open to the public? How much is it?
- Who destroyed the Parthenon? Who bombed it?