What happened here?
Athena Parthenos was a monumental statue of the goddess Athena, created by the renowned sculptor Phidias. This statue was placed in the Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis and was considered one of the pinnacles of ancient Greek art. The statue was made of chryselephantine, a combination of gold and ivory, and stood approximately 12 meters tall. Athena Parthenos symbolized the power and protection of the city of Athens and was revered as its patron.
Learn more about this event
Phidias' Masterpiece on the Acropolis
In 438 BC, the inhabitants of the Athenian Acropolis gathered to witness the completed work that would seal the glory of their city. Phidias, the renowned sculptor, had just finished the monumental statue of Athena Parthenos. The statue stood in the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess, and its imposing appearance embodied the power and protection of Athens. Phidias used chryselephantine, a rare combination of gold and ivory, which gave the statue extraordinary splendor.
Before the eyes of the crowd stood the twelve-meter figure of the goddess Athena, holding a statue of the goddess Nike in one hand and a spear in the other. On her head, she wore a helmet, and on her chest, the aegis with the head of Medusa. Through his work, Phidias not only celebrated Athena but also demonstrated the technical and artistic prowess of his time. The statue became a symbol not only religious but also political, reflecting the ambitions and strength of Athens.
Athena Parthenos immediately became one of the greatest wonders of the ancient world. Her influence extended far beyond the borders of Athens, inspiring artists and sculptors throughout Greece. Although the statue itself has not survived, its likeness has endured in the form of copies and descriptions that testify to its significance. Phidias' work remained a lasting symbol of the cultural and artistic pinnacle of classical Greece.
Where it happened
Coordinates: 37.9715, 23.7267 · View larger map
FAQ
In what year did Completion of Phidias' Statue of Athena Parthenos happen?
It happened: 438 BC.
What was Completion of Phidias' Statue of Athena Parthenos?
Athena Parthenos was a monumental statue of the goddess Athena, created by the renowned sculptor Phidias. This statue was placed in the Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis and was considered one of the pinnacles of ancient Greek art. The statue was made of chryselephantine, a combination of gold and
Where can I try Completion of Phidias' Statue of Athena Parthenos?
On HistoryGuesser — explore a 360° scene and guess where in the world and in what year it happened.
What you'll see here
In the game you stand right at this place in a 360° panorama and guess where and when the event happened.
View in 360° →
