The symbol of Ancient Greece: The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is probably the most important monument of Ancient Greece and has towered over Athens for 2500 years. Although the Parthenon temple, with its characteristic columns, is its most famous monument, it is only one of the many treasures of the Acropolis. After a very long restoration work, palaces, columns and sculptures have returned to reflect the splendor, power and wealth of Athens. The Acropolis is much more than a world famous monument. It was once a city with numerous buildings, but over the centuries it has been deeply damaged, not only by enemies, but also by archaeologists. The Byzantines converted the temples into churches, the Turkish governor used the Erechtheum as a harem and 200 years ago the British stole many sculptures. Fortunately, many parts have been restored, and today you can walk in this amazing place, the cradle of Western civilization. The Parthenon is the most photographed monument of the Acropolis and its columns are an undisputed symbol of the wealth of Ancient Greece. The name means "apartment of the Virgin" and was built in honor of Athena Parthenos, the goddess who gave wealth to the city. Walking around it, you can also admire the exceptional finishes and the sculptures in the pediments on each side. The marble panels, the so-called metopes, depict historical scenes such as the defeat of Troy, and in the past they were gilded or painted in wonderful colors, which unfortunately have been erased from time.almost 200 years ago the Greeks began the long restoration of the Acropolis, with the aim of returning it to its original appearance. In 1857 the Propylaea Tower was demolished, although it had been the symbol of Athens for centuries. Recently it was noted that restoration work was not always carried out in a professional manner: much of the marble crumbled when the metal used began to rust. Today the metal has been replaced with titanium, the pillars have been straightened and the decorations on the walls cleaned with laser. Now the Acropolis is ready to visit!