The six monumental architectural masterpieces of the Athens Acropolis  

The crowning glory and symbol of the Ancient Greek civilization. Acropolis is the name of the “rock” that holds six monumental architectural masterpieces of ancient Greece still existing today. The Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaea, and the two theaters of Dionysus and Herod Atticus.

1.The renowned Erechtheion – (also known as Porch of the Maidens or Caryatids). Located on the north side of the Acropolis and constructed around 421 BC.  This temple is said to have housed the wooden statue of the goddess Athena.

The original Caryatids are now located at the new Acropolis museum with one spot empty and awaiting it to be returned from the British Museum.

2.Temple of Athena Nike – Smallest temple at the Acropolis and dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike (Nike meaning “Victory”. Built around 420 BC and located at the southwest corner of the Acropolis.

Below you can see a reconstruction of what was believed the temple looked like originally.

3.The Propylaea (entrance)– The word itself translates to “Gates”. This building complex was the ceremonial entrance to the Acropolis of Athens. Built by the Pericles rebuilding program in 437 BCE. Today we still enter the site using this entrance.

4.The “Ancient” theater of Dionysus – One of two “theaters” located on the Acropolis. This one was the first one built into a natural hallow at the southern slope of the Acropolis. Regarded as the largest theater in Antique Greece, with a capacity of 17,000 spectators and excellent acoustics. Events no longer take place here.

5.The theater of Herod Atticus – also called the “Odeon” – Built around 170 AD. This theater is much smaller than the theater of Dionysus, seating around 5,000 people. It is still being used today for concerts and festivals.

6.The Parthenon – Last but not least the largest temple dominating the hill of the Acropolis. It is dedicated to the goddess Athena Parthenos.  This has undoubtedly given the Acropolis the reputation that has surpassed countless centuries.

Combined together these six universal symbols of classical Greek aesthetics, spirit and civilization, create a perfect balance and harmony with the natural landscape that surrounds them.

Planned out by Pericles and constructed around 5th century BC under guidance of Pheidias. Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987.