Impressively perched on the rock of Acropolis, towering over the theater of Dionysus and fringed against Lycabettus Hill, the Parthenon is one of the world's most enduring cultural icons. Built in the 5th century BC at the behest of Pericles and under the supervision of Phidias, its incredible geometric form has inspired parliamentary design worldwide. And yet it carries many mysteries and curiosities -- from its precisely calculated proportions centered around the Golden mean to its subtle optical illusions such as its deliberately curved pillars, and the enigmatic caryatids designed to carry incredible weight while embodying grace and elegance -- the Parthenon shines as an architectural beacon.

Gazing upon the ancient wonder.	View from below the Acropolis rock	Hovering over the theater of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Odeon of Herodes Atticus -- the theater that has hosted great music concerts from Maria Callas to Yanni and Elton John

The Propylaea -- the famous Doric pillars that served as the entrance to the Acropolis		The Stoa of Eumenes connected the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the theater of Dionysus

The Erechtheum, built around 410 BC by Phidias, is particularly recognizable by the Porch of the Caryatids.	Each caryatid is a column in the shape of a maiden, designed so the slenderest part (the neck) can bear the weight of the porch

The Parthenon		Numerous curves and bulges were added with form and function in mind -- such as a slightly upward parabolic platform to shed rain water, as well as slightly bulging pillars to negate optical anomalies and make the temple look precisely rectangular

Video: Inside view of the Parthenon.





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