Which European country is known for the Parthenon?

Greece is the country known for the Parthenon, the ancient temple that crowns the Acropolis of Athens. Dedicated primarily to Athena, the city’s patron goddess, it is one of the best-known surviving monuments of classical Greek architecture.

Construction began in 447 BC during Athens’s period of political and cultural power and was substantially completed by 438 BC, with decorative work continuing afterward. Architects Ictinus and Callicrates designed the building, while the sculptor Phidias supervised its artistic programme. The temple was funded during the height of the Delian League, following Greek victories over Persia.

The Parthenon originally contained a monumental statue of Athena made from gold and ivory. Over the centuries it was converted into a Christian church and later an Ottoman mosque. In 1687, an explosion caused by Venetian artillery severely damaged the building while it was being used to store ammunition.

The Parthenon is often confused with the entire Acropolis, but it is only one structure on that hill. Other major monuments there include the Erechtheion, the Propylaia and the Temple of Athena Nike.