Athens
capital of ancient and modern Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It was also the centre of Ancient Greek civilization that started from the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel with ancient temples and theaters. Most buildings were destroyed by the Persians 10 years after the Battle Marathon, but rebuilt in the Golden Age and partly still exist, like the Parthenon.
Image by Nick115
The Acropolis of Athens is the most striking and complete ancient Greek monumental complex still existing in our times. It is situated on a rocky and steep hill that rises ca 156m above the city of Athens. Several monumental buildings are situated on the nearly flat top, surrounded by strong fortification walls for more than 3,300 years.
The architectural masterpieces of the 5th century BC are well preserved and a World Heritage since 1987: the Parthenon by Iktinos and Kallikrates with the collaboration of the sculptor Pheidias (447-432); the Propylaia by Mnesikles (437-432); the Temple of Athena Nike by Mnesikles and Kallikrates (427-424); and Erechtheion (421-406).
The Acropolis has been operating as an archaeological site since 1833, shortly after the establishment of the modern Greek State.
