The Parthenon, TN

The Parthenon in Nashville's Centennial Park is a full-scale copy of the original Parthenon in Athens. It was built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition and was designed by architect William Crawford Smith. The Parthenon, which now serves as an art museum, is the focal point of Centennial Park, a vast public park located just west of Nashville.

What was the purpose of the Parthenon's construction?

The Parthenon was primarily built as a temple for the goddess Athena, who was the most popular deity among Athenians. The building's construction began in 447 BCE and lasted until 438 BCE. The Parthenon's decorating continued for several more years, until 432 BCE.

What is the significance of the Parthenon?

It was a symbol of Athens' strength, prosperity, and elevated culture when it was built in the 5th century B.C. It was the largest and most opulent temple ever built on the Greek mainland. It is now one of the most well-known structures in the world and a lasting emblem of Ancient Greece.

What made the Parthenon so unique?

The Parthenon is notable for its size and construction method. The Parthenon represents the culmination of the Doric order's protracted evolution, which began at least 250 years earlier. It's made of Pentelic marble. The level of precision with which the marble was carved is incredible.