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The Acropolis and the Parthenon. The Acropolis is usually called the symbol of Athens. It is nearly impossible to find a place in the city, from which you won't be able to see the columns of its main temple - the Parthenon. In Greek the Acropolis means “the upper town”, and the Acropolis is actually built on a limestone plateau that 156m high. This plateau forms the Ancient town and is considered to be the main attraction of Athens. In order to enter the Acropolis, you will have to go through the ancient gates, which will lead you to the Propylaeum. You will see an ancient gallery – Pinacotheca - on the left side of the gates, and the smallest of the three temples of the Acropolis – the Temple of Athena Nike - on the right side. Currently, this temple is closed because of reconstruction works. The top of portico of the second temple - the temple of Erechtheion - is supported by columns made in the shape of young women, the famous caryatids. However, the Parthenon is, without a doubt, the most impressing temple of Athens. During the ancient times the temple was the location of a well-known wooden statue of Athena Parthenos, the protectress of the city. The statue was decorated with gold and elephants made of ivory.

The Parthenon is one of the greatest architectural sights in the world. The architects took into account all peculiarities of the human eyesight and made all the corners of the building a little bit round. This deliberate curvature coupled with the unequal distance among the columns has created an impression of a total harmony. All the lines seem to be irreproachably horizontal and vertical. The Acropolis is a fascinating and magnificent place, especially in evening, when the structure is illuminated by special lights.
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