The Parthenon: a 200 by 100-foot massive structure, located in the heart of Greece, an iconic symbol of the beliefs of the ancient Greeks. Built in 447 BC, this temple of the Acropolis of Athens has stood long enough to see the fall of Ancient Greece and the rise of the Athenian Democracy, followed by the rise of western civilization. It is these advancements that have played a major role in the pristine preservation of this historical treasure that has seen invasions, conquests, and complete and utter destruction, only to be rebuilt from the rubble.
Today, the Parthenon is one of the most famous buildings in the Athenian Acropolis and one of the most well-known historical landmarks worldwide. There is a lot to be understood about history and learned about the future from this magical monument. To that end, these facts about the Parthenon will teach you many new and interesting things!
The Parthenon was built as a replacement for an older temple of Athena destroyed in 480 BC, referred to by historians as the Older Parthenon or the Pre-Parthenon.
(By Dean Dixon, Wikimedia Commons)
The intended purpose of the Parthenon was to house Athena Parthenos (Athena the Virgin), a 40-foot gold and ivory sculpture of Athena.
All the gold from the Athena Parthenos, meant to be a back-up fund for the people of Athens, was taken by tyrannical leader Lacheres to fund his army.
In the final decade of 6 AD, the Parthenon was converted into a Christian Church, the Church of Parthenos Maria (Virgin Mary), and in the 15th century, into a mosque.
Given that Greece is often affected by tremors and quakes, the Parthenon was built to be reinforced against earthquakes and rainwater accumulation.
According to surviving documentation, the largest expense of building the Parthenon was transporting stones from Mount Pentelicus to Athens, 10 miles away.
The Ancient Athenians built the Parthenon in less than a decade. The EU’s restoration of the monument began in 1975 and is yet to be completed.
Most of the sculptures previously housed in the Parthenon are now spread out across the British Museum, the Louvre, Copenhagen, and Athen’s Acropolis Museum.
The Parthenon was not always white. Historians believe that the Parthenon was partly painted with colors like other buildings of that era, though the color has long since faded.
The Parthenon was first built with 23 inner pillars and 46 outer pillars, not all of which have remained standing.
(Flickr)
Pericles, known as the first citizen of Athens and its most prominent Statesman, inspired the building of the Parthenon and other monuments in the Acropolis.
In 1687, the Acropolis was bombarded by Venetians fighting the Turks. A gunpowder magazine in the temple exploded, completely destroying the center of the building.
15 Facts So Fascinating You’ll Have to Pass Them On!
A few interesting facts make even the most mundane topic fascinating. Check out these 15 facts across many different topics.
Full Documentary: Unearthing the Lost World of Angkor Wat...
This fascinating feature-length documentary explores the ancient civilization that inhabited Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Watch it in its entirety here.
This Fortress Has Over 1000 Years of Fascinating History
Over 2 million people visit the Alhambra fortress every year, but few of them know about the secret world beneath this ancient monument.
Everything You Didn't Know About Central Park
We're sharing all the nitty-gritty about Central Park's history, some facts you almost certainly didn't know, and some vintage iconic photos of the Park.
It’s Time for Some More Spine Chilling Facts
If you’re in the mood to learn some baffling and spine-chilling things about the world we live in, you’re in luck. Take a look at these 12 scary but fascinating facts.
5 Strange Lesser Known Stories About the British Monarchy
Some of these lesser-known rumors about the British Royal Family are funny, some are mysterious, and some are just plain odd...
INTERACTIVE: The Musings of Philosophers Through the Ages
The great thinkers have imbued the world with greater knowledge and different perspectives. Learn about what the wisest men in history had to say.
You'll Never Guess How These Optical Illusions Work
Here are three incredible optical illusion videos that have taken the internet by storm. Can you solve the mysteries that you're about to see?
These American History “Facts” Are Actually False
We’ve all believed these American history “facts” at some point.
I Had No Idea These Brand Names Are Actually Acronyms
There are loads of brand names out there that are actually acronyms, and here are some of the most surprising ones!
15 of the Best Books for Seniors and Older Adults
Check out our definitive list of amazing books that every senior will enjoy.
1 Day in Pompeii: Experience That Fateful Day!
One day in 79 AD the city of Pompeii was tragically destroyed by an extraordinary volcanic eruption. This video shows you just how the scene would have unfolded.
You'd Never See THIS in a Modern Home
In this video, we'll visit some old homes and learn about their obsolete features.
Ride Through a German Town In 1902 on 'The Flying Train'
Take a fascinating ride through a German town from 1902 in this rare and unique footage.
9 Different Types of Oranges You Never Knew About
How many of these unique orange varieties have you tried?
Vintage Photos: 17 Classic Snaps from the Good Old Days
Get a glimpse of the past with these fascinating vintage pictures.
Your Cat Isn't Weird, It's Just Trying to Say Something
Many cat behaviors have human equivalents, however we often have problems interpreting them. Thanks to this handy guide, you will not anymore!
7 Ancient Buildings That Have Survived the Test of Time
Here is a look at some wonderful ancient structures that have survived the test of time.
12 Juicy Facts You Probably Don't Know About Grapes
Did you know grapes are actually berries? Find out more juicy facts about grapes in this article.
Monica Lewinsky: I Paid The Price of Shame...
We all connect the name Monica Lewinsky with shame, what is it like being the one at the other end of this story?
'What a Wonderful World' Like You've Never Heard Before!
Listen to this hauntingly beautiful cover of the classic song “What a Wonderful World”.
If You Like History You Will LOVE This Incredible Video!
Seeing history move right before our eyes teaches us so much about the last 2000 years!
7 Life Lessons Taught by Winston Churchill
To inspire others, we have compiled 7 lessons he taught us through his life's work and life.
Printing a New Leg for Buttercup - Lovely!
Buttercup the goose was born with a foot that was turned the wrong way...
April Fools: The Most Iconic Pranks in History!
It’s April Fool's Day! Let’s check out some of the most iconic pranks in history.
Here Are 18 Rare Photos You Won't Find In History Books
These are the RAREST vintage photos ever...
Behold the Worst Predictions in History!
Not every prediction is true, and some of them, like the ones on this list - miss the mark by a mile!
Nostalgic Collection: Click to See the Historical Photos!
Click on any of the photos to be taken to a post full of some of our most fascinating historical photographs.
22 Old Photos That Really Make History Come Alive
Looking through these old black and white photos you can really learn a lot about history and the world. These 22 photos generates that mind-blowing spark and teaches you something new.
7 Still Unanswered Questions About JFK's Assassination
There are many questions surrounding John F. Kennedy's death that remain unanswered. Here are 7 of the issues that are yet to be addressed.
7 Mythical Characters Who Actually Existed
Did you know that there are some characters from mythology that might have existed in real life? Let's find out about some of them.
When Animals Go Rogue: True Tales of Man-Eating Animals
Throughout history, many animals have turned into deadly man-eaters. Here’s a list of the most intense books on the subject.
Watch: An Emotional Interview With a Dunkirk Veteran
At the premiere of the hit movie, Dunkirk, at Calgary’s Westhills Cinemas, theatergoers ended up having a surprise encounter with a 97-year-old veteran.
Here Are 18 Facts That Are Bound to Blow Your Mind!
Here are 18 amazing facts that you won't be forgetting anytime soon!
These Victorian Era Facts Are Instantly Fascinating
An era of 74 Years in English history, the Victorian era is one of the most interesting periods in history.
These Female Celebs Have Aged Like Fine Wine (28 Pics)
These female celebrities are aging just like fine wine.
9 Facts About Ancient Egypt You Probably Didn’t Know
Venture beyond the usual facts about the pyramids and Tutankhamen and learn 9 equally fascinating facts and misconceptions about Ancient Egypt
These Theories On Reality Will Blow Your Mind
There are many crazy theories about the nature of reality, but some of them definitely outdo the others. Here are 10 mind-blowing theories about reality.
A Look into Ancient Greece Like You've Never Seen Before
What can interior design and fashion trends tell us about a culture? A lot more than you think.
Love is Beautifully Captured in These Historic Photos...
While much has changed over the last century, there is one thing that has always remained the same, and that is love. Take a look at this photo collection.
12 Rules for Basic Etiquette that Should Still be Practiced
It feels like people forgot the meaning of politeness, well these 12 rules of manners should be read, remembered and acted upon.
I Wish They Taught Me These Math Tips at School
Bad at math? Learn how to use these quick and easy methods.
See How the Egyptians Actually Built the Pyramids
While we marvel at the great pyramids, we know little about how they were actually constructed. This video sheds some light into that.
14 Movie Recommendations You Won’t Want to Miss
Which films deserve to be added to your watch list? Here are 14 suggestions (with trailers) that are sure to inspire and emote you.
You Will Love This Collection of Rare Historical Photos
This amazing collection of vintage photographs will give you a unique glimpse of the past.
12 of the Most Fascinating Creatures in Norse Mythology
The world of Norse mythology is full of bizarre mythical creatures. Let’s take a look at the most fascinating ones.
What Does the Color of an Egg Yolk Mean? Find Out Here!
Ever wondered what the color of an egg yolk says about the quality of the egg? If so, then wonder no more...