In Greek mythology and history, Athens held the ancient temple called the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena.
The Parthenon stands on the Acropolis of Athens and was built in the fifth century BCE during Athens's classical period. It honored Athena Parthenos, meaning Athena the Virgin, who was regarded as the city's patron goddess. The temple replaced an earlier structure destroyed during the Persian Wars.
Athens's connection with Athena was explained through a contest between Athena and Poseidon. Each offered a gift to the city: Poseidon produced a source of water or a salt spring, while Athena gave the olive tree. The Athenians chose Athena's gift, and the city took her name.
The Parthenon was not the only sacred building on the Acropolis. The Erechtheion, also on the Acropolis, contained important cult sites connected with Athena and Poseidon. The temple's name should not be confused with “Panathenaia,” the festival held in Athena's honor.