The Acropolis is one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. The site is an elevated, flat-topped rock with an assortment of monuments and ruins built between 510 and 400 B.C. Crowned by the Parthenon, the spectacular building that symbolizes some of the highest achievements of mankind, Acropolis is visible from almost everywhere within the city.
With its monumental rows of Doric columns and stunning sculptural details, the temple is an awe-inspiring sight. In the frieze on the eastern side, reliefs depict the miraculous birth of Athena from the head of her father Zeus. The scene, which takes place on Olympus, is watched by the rest of the gods standing, sitting or half-reclining.
Other ruins of the Acropolis include the Erechtheion, a temple on the north side of the Acropolis built between 421 and 406 BC and dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. The most famous feature of the Erechtheion temple is the Porch of the Caryatids, with six statues of maidens, clothed female figures, in the place of Doric columns, acting as supporting columns.
One should also visit the Acropolis Museum at 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, just a few minutes walk from the Acropolis site. It has been ranked among the top museums of the world. It contains one of the most valuable collections of ancient Greek art worldwide.
