Must-visit attraction in Athens: The Parthenon — Step into the dreamy world of Greek mythology

As soon as we got off the bus, we were greeted by the scorching sun. Within just a few steps, our faces were already red from the sun — that’s the sun in Athens, 100% passionate. Walking through the Propylaea of the Acropolis and the Temple of Athena Nike, what greets you is the most anticipated highlight: the Parthenon. The site was packed with tourists all taking selfies, and it wasn’t easy to get a shot without anyone in it. Plus, some areas were still under renovation, so the Parthenon looked a bit different from the imagination. Even with its imperfect appearance, it stood calmly under the blue sky, as if it belonged there — so naturally that you couldn’t help but take a couple more photos.

▲ Arriving around 9 a.m., the Propylaea of the Acropolis was already crowded with tourists. Some visitors had dressed up appropriately in white dresses, looking very much like Greek goddesses.

The floors of the Acropolis are very slippery — the smooth stone surfaces make it easy to accidentally come into close contact with the ground. Every step must be taken carefully, and visitors kept reminding each other to watch their footing. They also took time to admire the architectural features of the Parthenon, staying quite busy. In front of each temple in the Acropolis, there are information signs in both Greek and English. Many visitors would stand attentively in front of these signs, gesturing animatedly, their sunburned faces showing excitement.

Tourists on group tours or those who joined Local Tours had English-speaking guides explaining the sights. Spending half a day to cover both the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum was very convenient — no need to prepare the itinerary yourself.

▲ Despite the crowds and ongoing renovations, a closer look at the Parthenon's architecture can still move you with the craftsmanship of the time — you’ll find yourself exclaiming, “Unbelievable!”

Athens is named after the goddess Athena. Legend has it that Athena and the sea god Poseidon competed for this land. Each presented gifts that would benefit the residents, letting them decide who would win. Poseidon struck the rock with his trident, and a war horse emerged from within — a symbol of war. Athena struck the rock with her spear, and an olive tree grew — a symbol of peace and abundance. The people chose Athena, and thus the city was named after her.

▲ The Parthenon has endured wars in the past, leaving only broken columns behind. The Greek government continues to restore and maintain it, and many are looking forward to seeing its complete form.

The 150-meter-high Acropolis, which means “city on a high hill,” is located in the heart of Athens and is highly visible from afar. In ancient Greece, locations chosen for temples typically had great views — after all, temples dedicated to the gods couldn’t be just anywhere.

▲ Every attraction in the Acropolis has informational signs in both Greek and English.

The Parthenon was originally designed for the goddess Athena and housed the massive statue of Athena Parthenos. Its construction and decoration took at least 16 years to complete. The stones were even transported from 16 kilometers away — a labor-intensive process. It remains one of the most important surviving structures from classical Greece and is recognized as the pinnacle of the development of the Doric order. Those studying architecture would surely marvel at the craftsmanship and design of that era. Though the Parthenon was damaged during wars in the 5th century and now only the remaining columns are left, it still faintly hints at its former glory in the 5th century BC.

Parthenon (Acropolis of Athens)
Transportation: Metro Akropoli Station
Ticket Price: €20
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8:00–20:00