The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historical significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually.

The term acropolis is generic and there are many other acropoleis in Greece. During ancient times it was known also more properly as Cecropia, after the legendary serpent-man, Cecrops, the supposed first Athenian king.

While there is evidence that the hill was inhabited as far back as the fourth millennium BC, it was Pericles in the fifth century BC who coordinated the construction of the buildings whose present remains are the site's most important ones, including the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.

The history of the Acropolis dates back to the Neolithic Period (approximately 4,000 BCE) but gained prominence during the Bronze Age (circa 2,000 BCE) with the emergence of Mycenaean settlements. It evolved into a significant religious center dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens.

The 5th century BCE, known as the Classical Period, marked the Acropolis's golden age. After the Persian destruction in 480 BCE, the Athenians, under the leadership of Pericles, embarked on an ambitious rebuilding program. This era witnessed the construction of iconic structures that embody the ideals of classical Greek architecture and art.


Parthenon: The most iconic and recognizable building on the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena Parthenos ("Athena the Virgin"). It is considered the pinnacle of the Doric architectural order and a symbol of Athenian democracy and victory over the Persians. The Parthenon also served as a treasury for Athens.

Erechtheion: A temple with an unusual asymmetrical design, dedicated to Athena Polias and Poseidon-Erechtheus. It houses several sacred sites, including the tomb of Cecrops (mythical first king of Athens), the saltwater well created by Poseidon, and Athena's sacred olive tree. The Erechtheion is also famous for its six Caryatid statues that serve as columns on the south porch.

Propylaea: The grand monumental entrance to the Acropolis. It was designed with a blend of Doric and Ionic styles and served as a symbolic gateway separating the sacred precinct from the secular world.

Temple of Athena Nike: A small, elegant Ionic temple built around 427 BCE, commemorating Athenian victories. It features slender columns and intricate friezes depicting battle scenes and figures of Nike, the goddess of victory.

The Acropolis of Athens is thought to be the symbol of the ancient Greek culture. It is also considered to be one of the most significant ancient monuments in Europe. Both the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the imposing temple that was dedicated to the goddess Athena, are visible from almost every spot in Athens.


The Acropolis Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts discovered at the Acropolis site. Key exhibits include:

Moschophoros (Calf-bearer): A 6th-century BCE statue symbolizing a sacrificial offering to Athena.
Caryatids: Five of the original six Caryatid statues from the Erechtheion.
Parthenon Frieze: Intricate low-relief sculptures depicting the Panathenaic procession, a festival honoring Athena.
Nike Adjusting Her Sandal: A beautifully sculpted relief depicting Nike, the goddess of victory, in a graceful pose.
Archaeological Excavation: A gallery in the basement offering a view of an ongoing excavation site underneath the museum.


Location: The Acropolis of Athens is located on a hilltop in the city of Athens, Greece. The Acropolis Museum is situated on the south slope of the Acropolis hill, within walking distance of the site.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn months offer the mildest weather for exploring. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid crowds and intense sun.
Accessibility: The Acropolis has limited accessibility due to uneven terrain. There is an elevator near the South Slope entrance, but its availability may vary, so it is advisable to contact the site beforehand.
Tickets: The Acropolis ticket grants access to the Acropolis and its slopes, but a separate ticket is required for the Acropolis Museum. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
Duration: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the Acropolis site thoroughly. A visit to the Acropolis Museum can take an additional 1-2 hours.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are highly recommended to learn about the history and significance of the Acropolis and the museum.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially during warm weather.
Be respectful of the historical site and avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or history.

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Acropolis Of Athens