The Acropolis at Dawn

• Great Cultural Monuments, World Cities & Harbors
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Settlement and construction on the Acropolis of Athens dates back to thousands of years BC, but most was destroyed by Persians when they invaded Athens in 480 BC. The Greek statesman Pericles led its rebuilding during Athens’ “Golden Age” to create the buildings that stand today, including the Parthenon, the iconic landmark of Greece, and one of the most famous landmarks in Europe.

Originally housing a 40-foot-tall statue of the goddess Athena and a treasury, the Parthenon has survived many threats and uses imposed on it over the millennia. It has been a brothel, a Christian church, a mosque, and an armory for the Turks. In 1687, a Turkish gunpowder cache exploded and ruined much of the structure. Today, in ruins, the Parthenon is still threatened by environmental effects– particularly acid rain— on its marble.

Still, the Parthenon stands proudly over Athens as a reminder of a great culture and an inspiration to architects everywhere: the Greek Doric style exemplified by the Parthenon has been imitated in great cities and buildings across the globe.

Andy Snitzer is a jazz saxophonist who has toured with many popular artists including the Rolling Stones and Paul Simon. Also an accomplished producer, his solo work blends a melodic jazz style with modern and electronic elements.

Links

Visit Greece: The Acropolis
Ancient Greece.org: The Parthenon
The Acropolis Museum
Andy Snitzer Official Website